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.

Dreamy Cherry Blossom Sisters Shoot in Philadelphia

Capturing the magical bond between siblings amidst cherry blossoms in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia. A dreamy, portrait session filled with love and laughter.

Behind The Lens: A Cherry Blossom Sisters Shoot in Philadelphia

As a photographer based outside of Philadelphia, I’ve had the pleasure of capturing all sorts of amazing moments around this beautiful city. But when I was approached to photograph a sisters' shoot surrounded by the blooming cherry blossoms at Fairmount Park, let’s just say I might have done a happy dance. (Don't judge me—it's a photographer thing.) This dreamy, pink-tinted shoot was everything I dreamed of and more, so I’m here to share a behind-the-scenes peek into the magic!

Girl holding cherry blossom in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia, during a dreamy sisters' photoshoot

A beautiful young girl holding a delicate cherry blossom in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia.

The Concept of the Sisters Shoot: Sibling Goals, Am I Right?

When the idea for this sisters' shoot came to me, I was so on board. There’s something special about capturing the bond between siblings, and I was excited to showcase each sister's unique personality in a dreamy, fine-art style session. With the cherry blossoms in full bloom, I knew the backdrop would be nothing short of breathtaking.

I wanted to make sure we caught both the candid moments of them interacting and the pure joy that comes from sibling love. Plus, I mean, who wouldn’t want their childhood memories immortalized next to these stunning pink blossoms? It’s like the definition of romantic spring goals.

We even styled the shoot with soft pink tones to match the pastel-hued cherry blossoms, ensuring everything was as dreamy as a fairytale. The lush green of Fairmount Park and those gorgeous pink trees made it feel like a scene straight out of a movie, minus the special effects. (Well, minus most of the special effects.)

Sisters smiling at each other in pink couture dresses during a cherry blossom photoshoot in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia.

Two sisters share a joyful moment, smiling at each other while wearing elegant pink couture dresses during their photoshoot in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia.

Scouting the Perfect Spot at Fairmount Park: Nature's Hidden Gems

Finding the perfect location for a shoot is crucial—especially when the subject is a pair of sisters and the setting is a giant park with an insane amount of options. After a little wandering (okay, maybe a lot of wandering), I found the spot where the cherry blossoms were in full, Instagram-worthy bloom. The soft pink flowers were just begging to be in a shoot, and the combination of these flowers and the sisters in pink dresses? Absolutely picture-perfect.

As we got ready to shoot, I adjusted the lighting, moved a few branches (we photographers never touch the flowers, I swear), and made sure the frame was as dreamy as the sisters’ bond. Because in photography, it's all about making magic happen—whether it's with light, flowers, or a killer pair of dresses.

Girl twirling in a pink dress surrounded by cherry blossoms and daffodils during a photoshoot in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia.

A young girl twirls gracefully in her pink dress, surrounded by blooming cherry blossoms and daffodils in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia. The vibrant spring flowers and soft pink hues create a whimsical and enchanting atmosphere during this dreamy photoshoot.

Capturing the Magic of Sibling Love: A Blossoming Bond

As the shoot progressed, I took full advantage of the gorgeous cherry blossoms and the playful chemistry between the sisters. Every smile, every little moment of them just being themselves made my job easier. Their pink dresses matched the surroundings way better than I had imagined. I was snapping shots left and right, making sure I captured everything from their giggles to the moments of sibling-seriousness (because, let’s be real, those happen, too).

Cherry blossoms gave us this magical atmosphere, and every picture radiated it. The sisters' personalities? They shone through in every frame—so much love and fun! Plus, golden hour was throwing in its two cents, casting this soft glow over the entire scene. It doesn’t get more photography-fairy-tale than that.

Close-up of a smiling girl bathed in soft golden light during a cherry blossom photoshoot in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia.

A close-up of a young girl with a radiant smile, surrounded by soft golden light during a cherry blossom photoshoot in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia. The warm glow enhances the enchanting and joyful atmosphere of the moment, capturing her beauty and the serenity of spring.

Golden Hour Magic: When the Light Turns Everything into Gold

If you don’t know what "golden hour" is, it’s the time just before sunset when the sun is casting the perfect soft, warm light over everything. It’s basically the photographer’s equivalent of winning the lottery. And lucky me—during the cherry blossom sisters shoot, golden hour was on my side. The sun made everything glow like it was dipped in honey (if that’s a thing), and I was able to play around with angles and shots to make sure we got that perfect shot.

Girl twirling in a pink couture dress surrounded by cherry blossoms and daffodils in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia.

A young girl joyfully twirling in a flowing pink couture dress amidst blooming cherry blossoms and daffodils in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia. The soft petals and vibrant flowers create a dreamy backdrop, highlighting her playful and carefree spirit during this magical photoshoot.

I experimented with lighting and composition (because that’s what cool photographers do), and the result was pure magic. From soft, romantic moments to the final frames as the light faded, it was the kind of shoot that made me look at the camera and think, "Did I just capture the best thing ever?"

The Challenge for Busy Parents: Trust Me, I Get It

I know how crazy life can be as a parent. Finding time for a photoshoot, scheduling, wardrobe coordination—it’s a lot. But capturing those memories? Totally worth it. So, I do everything I can to make the process smooth and stress-free. I work with parents to customize each session to meet their needs, ensuring it’s as simple as possible for everyone involved. And hey, I might even be able to throw in a few jokes to lighten the mood. (No guarantees, though.)

Sisters posing and smiling together in pink couture dresses amidst cherry blossoms in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia.

Two sisters sharing a joyful moment, posing and smiling in their elegant pink couture dresses surrounded by blooming cherry blossoms in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia. The soft pastel hues and natural beauty of the park create a timeless and heartwarming portrait of their bond.

The Rewarding Experience: A Magical Day with Magical People

Looking back, I can confidently say this cherry blossom sisters shoot was one for the books. Capturing the sibling bond in such a breathtaking setting made this shoot one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. From the glowing golden hour to the timeless cherry blossoms, it was a session that felt like an enchanted memory in the making.

Magical fine art portrait of a girl twirling in a pink dress amidst cherry blossoms in Philadelphia.

A magical fine art portrait of a young girl gracefully twirling in a pink dress, surrounded by blooming cherry blossoms in Philadelphia. The dreamy atmosphere captures the elegance and whimsy of the moment, showcasing the beauty of both the subject and the enchanting setting.

The final images are filled with laughter, love, and all the things that make siblings (and photography) so special. As a photographer, there’s nothing quite like giving families memories that they’ll treasure forever. And for me, that’s the real magic.

Check Out More Philadelphia Portraits!

Dee
Shooting Star Photography
Serving Philadelphia, Mainline, Northern Delaware, and all of Southern New Jersey.

Check Out Some more cherry blossom portraits in Pennsylvania and NJ!

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Ben Franklin Bridge-Camden, New Jersey

New Jersey Photography Session at the Ben Franklin Bridge

Astonishing Portrait Session of Two Sisters at Ben Franklin Bridge in New Jersey on a beautiful day in May. 

On a beautiful May evening, I embarked on a journey to capture the remarkable portrait session of two sisters at the iconic Ben Franklin Bridge. The radiance they brought to the scene was beyond my expectations. The sisters, hailing from the New York area, arrived excited to pick out their dresses and commence the photoshoot.

A beautiful sister photo session at the Ben Franklin Bridge!

Astonishing Portrait Session of Two Sisters at Ben Franklin Bridge in New Jersey.

On a beautiful May evening, I embarked on a journey to capture the remarkable portrait session of two sisters at the iconic Ben Franklin Bridge. The radiance they brought to the scene was beyond my expectations. The sisters, hailing from the New York area, arrived excited to pick out their dresses and commence the photoshoot.

As soon as they arrived, their vibrant personalities and undeniable charm set the tone for a memorable photo shoot. The girls' gorgeous outfits perfectly complemented one another, showcasing their individual beauty and strong bond as sisters. The resulting photos captured the essence of sisterhood and love, while showcasing their personalities in each snap.

Weather-wise it was a nice balmy 78 and a little windy! However, some wind, not the crazy hurricane types, can actually add some movement to images.

The bond between the sisters was palpable and evident not only in their physical resemblance but also in their interactions. Their laughter filled the bridge, creating an atmosphere of warmth and genuine affection. Witnessing their pure joy was an inspiration for me as a photographer.

Throughout the session, the sisters effortlessly posed with grace and poise, displaying their unique beauty and connection. Their complete trust in our vision allowed me to capture their true essence, preserving their sisterly bond in every frame.

I was fortunate to have a brother and two sisters growing up. I totally wish that we had photography like this to showcase our memories. I couldn’t fathom having a portrait session like this. It would have been incredible! Now, I have candids and polaroids of the film days of those times and of course your standard corny studio portraits, but if there was anything like this experience, I think it would be a highlight of my childhood!

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This was my favorite image of the whole session. I love the connection she has. She looks so kind and so happy. I love these Ben Franklin Bridge Sessions so much!

As the session drew to a close, I reflected on the magical experience I shared with these two sisters. The Ben Franklin Bridge provided an extraordinary canvas for their portraits, but it was their infectious spirit and love for one another that truly brought the images to life.

From the moment of meeting these two little beans, to picking out the dresses, walking up to the top and then photographing, I can’t say how pleasant of a time we had. I always say it is a good days work when there is a ton of laughter and twirls involved and we definitely got that here with these two.

We are grateful to have been a part of this incredible session and eagerly await the day to see these two sisters again.they came all the way from New York State to see us!

These images will serve as a tangible reminder of their bond for years to come, bringing joy to all who see them. The entire experience was not only successful but also incredibly fun for all involved.

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee.

Shooting Star Photography.

Family Photographer Extraordinaire!

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Chasing Silver in the Sun: A Sisters Photoshoot in Wilmington DE

Chasing Silver in the Sun: A Sisters Photoshoot in Wilmington DE

Aug 22

Intro

There's something magical about a beautiful day in the gardens, filled with laughter, love, and the shimmer of silver. On a particularly gorgeous day, two sisters decided to transform their shared moments into tangible memories within the captivating environs of Wilmington, DE. The dazzling smiles, the shared giggles, and their adoration for all things silver gave birth to a fascinating tale under the sun.

Intro

There's something magical about a beautiful day in the gardens, filled with laughter, love, and the shimmer of silver. On a particularly gorgeous day, two sisters decided to transform their shared moments into tangible memories within the captivating environs of Wilmington, DE. The dazzling smiles, the shared giggles, and their adoration for all things silver gave birth to a fascinating tale under the sun.

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A Glimpse of Mary Coffin Gardens

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Tucked away in the bustling city of Wilmington, Delaware, lies a hushed paradise - the Mary Coffin Gardens. Often overlooked, this gem boasts a rich tapestry of emerald greenery, a riot of blossoming flowers, and tranquil nooks ideal for moments of reflection. This splendid sanctuary offers an exquisite canvas for compelling photography. Picture cobblestone trails snaking their way through the flourishing gardens, sunlight dappled through the canopy of leaves, creating a visual symphony for any photoshoot. It is within this verdant oasis that the narrative of our sisters began to take shape.

Sisterhood Defined Through a Photoshoot

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The lens of a camera has the power to capture more than just pictures; it can encapsulate emotions, relationships, and moments that are fleeting yet impactful. The sisters' photoshoot was a beautiful depiction of their bond - an intricate web of shared experiences, whispered confidences, playful banter, and unwavering affection. As they frolicked and chased each other amidst the garden's lush greenery, their shared laughter resonated, creating a symphony of joy and companionship that was captured in every photograph. Each snapshot was more than just a beautiful picture; it was a cherished fragment of their shared existence, echoing their camaraderie, their shared past, and their aspirations.

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Embracing the Silver Trend in Fashion

Fashion is not just about the clothes we wear, but the stories we tell through them. The sisters’ mutual affinity for silver was brilliantly showcased in their photoshoot. Their accessories glinted in the sunlight, adding a touch of glamour and glitz to their appearance. Silver tones extended beyond their jewelry, embracing their wardrobes as well. Their outfits, in varying shades of silver, gave off a chic and trendy vibe.

What made the silver trend even more enchanting was the setting. Amid the lush greenery of the Mary Coffin Gardens, the sisters’ silver attire shone like stars on a clear night. The vibrant colors of the surrounding flora served as a dramatic contrast to the metallic hues, further amplifying their radiance. The sunlight dancing off their silver ensembles created a mesmerizing spectacle - a sight that could capture any eye and captivate any heart.

More than just an aesthetic choice, the silver trend worn by the sisters was a reflection of their personalities. It revealed their modern outlook towards fashion, their shared love for all things bright and shiny, and their ability to stand out. Their striking attire combined with their vivacious energy made every photo sparkle with life and style. A trend that might seem like a simple color choice became a symbol of their togetherness and their shared style statement. The silver trend, as adorned by the sisters, was thus not just a color, but a captivating tale of fashion, sisterhood, and shared memories.

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Capturing Perfect Moments

The essence of photography lies in the magic of seizing those fleeting instances that may seem ordinary yet are truly extraordinary. Each photograph of the sisters was a canvas portraying these ephemeral but precious moments, etched permanently into their shared chronicles. Through the photographer's lens, the infectious joy, profound love, and unbreakable bond between the sisters were masterfully encapsulated.

The photoshoot was less about staged poses and more about catching them in their natural, unfiltered state. Their movements were spontaneous, their laughter genuine, their smiles unrehearsed. It was all about capturing them in the middle of a joyous sprint, or a shared giggle, or a quiet, loving glance. It was about framing them in their true essence, reveling in each other's company, and simply basking in the moment.

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These sisters were not just posing for the camera, they were living their story and creating a narrative that the lens was privileged to capture. Each snap clicked at the right moment brought out their shared camaraderie, their playful banter, and their genuine affection for each other. It was about freezing those shared glances, those belly laughs, and those tender moments of sisterly love into timeless keepsakes.

Photography, after all, is not just about capturing faces; it's about capturing feelings, relationships, and those priceless instants that tell a compelling story. The artistry lies in preserving those perfect moments that, in retrospect, become an unforgettable part of the sisters' shared journey. The photoshoot in the enchanting Mary Coffin Gardens was less about the photographs taken and more about the precious moments caught in each frame, crafting an unforgettable narrative of sisterhood and love.

A Beautiful Day to Remember

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As the sun started to dip below the horizon, casting a serene glow over the Mary Coffin Gardens, the sisters stood side by side, their hands intertwined. Their hearts were brimming with a trove of treasured memories made throughout the day. From the glint of their silver attire sparkling under the sun to their echoing laughter that blended harmoniously with the garden's serene soundscape, every moment was etched in their hearts. The day was more than just a photoshoot - it was an enriching journey seeped in shared joy, camaraderie, and the unspoken language of sisterhood. It was a celebration of their mutual love for fashion, especially their fondness for the enigmatic charm of silver. Each giggle shared, each playful chase, each quiet, affectionate glance was a testament to their beautiful bond. The day was all about cherishing the beauty of the present, living each moment to its fullest, and creating beautiful memories in the process. As they looked back at the day, their hearts swelled with contentment. Their photoshoot in the serene, idyllic setting of the Mary Coffin Gardens wasn't just an event on their calendar. Instead, it was an unforgettable chapter in their shared journey, a vivid memory they would revisit time and again. Each snapshot taken, each moment shared under the sun was a cherished memory, a beautiful memento of their sisterly bond. As they left the gardens, their minds were filled with the day's experiences - a day of joy, shared fashion statements, and the magic of sisterhood, forever etched in their hearts. It was, indeed, a beautiful day - a day that would always shimmer in their memories like their cherished silver.

Welcome to this magical garden series for 2019! We have obtained a permit to shoot at the Mary Coffin Gardens in Wilmington, Delaware. If you haven't heard of this place, you need to check it out. Mary Coffin was the main designer at Winterthur Gardens and you see this carried over to this estate. She also worked on some gardens at Longwood.

Join me for a day of whimsy at this magical place. I have two spots left and this is our last offering of the year at this special limited series rate.

We will provide dresses and headpieces and we will have fun in the gardens.

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If you would like to book this magical garden experience, please see the link above for more information. We would love to see you here!

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There is one thing I am obsessed with. I always have been. From a young age to now an adult. It's one thing that has always brought me joy. It's flowers. Anything relating to flowers, I'm quite obsessed.

I obtained a Master Gardening Certification back in 2005. I love being able to identify bloom times of perennials and now am teaching my children how to identify these plants, just by their leaves. I have had gardens all my life.

From vegetable gardening with my father, to creating my own little magical "french courtyard" when I became an adult and lived in Havertown, PA. I took down an old dilapidated brick garage. Chiseled and sanded off the mortar of each and every brick. Used the brick to create walls around the property fence line and then even created brick flower beds. I had every variety of plant you could imagine, as my little courtyard garden was like a secret garden. Jasmine filled the air. Every Sunday night, we would light up a ton of candles. Listening to Frank Sinatra Sundays on the radio.

When I moved back to New Jersey, we bought a little house. All 1100 square feet. It was a blank canvas, so I got to work! Creating Rose of Sharon hedges for privacy on our little stone patio and boxwood and lilies.. everything lilies.. from easter lilies, to daylilies, to asiatic and oriental varieties and lots and lots of lavender. I had a small space, but made sure I made it my little heaven.

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Our family was expanding and so it was time to move from our tiny house and we settled in Woodstown. We saw the house in the winter all snow on the ground, but I new the garden would be extraordinary in the spring. It was pretty much the reason I wanted my house. The garden use to be on state garden tours. It's terraced leading down to a stream. This is now my new paradise that I call home and you could never ask me to leave. I love it.

As you can see, I have surrounded myself with flowers all my life. I couldn't be happier. This is the joy I also like to share with every client that comes through the door.

This is why this magic garden series is special to me. It brings me back to my original garden... encapsulated within stone. It reminds me of my travels to England and France and the beautiful gardens that you seem to find anywhere you look. It brings me back to a time of garden leisure and sophistication. It's one of my favorite places this year to shoot at.

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

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