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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The Peony Blooms in South Jersey: A Fragrant and Beautiful Backdrop for Photography

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Picking the beautiful peonies in South Jersey. We love these sessions and the puffs of colors they provide.

The Enchanting Elegance of Peonies

Peonies, with their exquisite beauty and captivating fragrance, hold a special place in the hearts of photographers and flower enthusiasts alike. Known as the "King of Flowers," these blooms exude an enchanting elegance that is truly one-of-a-kind. Here's why a photo shoot with peonies is so special:

Timeless Beauty

Peonies epitomize timeless beauty with their lush and voluminous petals that unfurl in captivating layers. Their delicate hues vary from soft pastels to vibrant crimsons, offering a versatile range of colors to complement any setting or theme. Whether used as a standalone subject or incorporated into a larger floral arrangement, peonies exude an air of grace and sophistication that can elevate any photo shoot.

Symbolism and Meaning

Peonies are rich in symbolism and meaning, making them a meaningful choice for a photo shoot. These exquisite blooms are often associated with romance, compassion, prosperity, and honor. Consequently, a photo shoot featuring peonies can evoke emotions of love, grace, and appreciation – resonating with viewers on a deep and personal level.

Versatility in Styling

With their versatility in styling, peonies offer countless opportunities for creative expression. From whimsical and dreamy to bold and dramatic, these blooms adapt effortlessly to various themes and concepts. Whether used in bridal portraits, fashion editorials, or still-life compositions, peonies bring an unmatchable allure to the frame.

Ethereal Fragrance

What sets peonies apart from other flowers is their breathtaking fragrance – a sensory experience that transcends imagery. The intoxicating scent of peonies can transform a photo shoot into a multisensory journey, adding another layer of magic to the overall experience. As a photographer, capturing this ethereal essence can transport viewers to a world of fantasy and beauty with just a single glance at the photograph.

Short-lived Splendor

One of the unique aspects of peonies is their ephemeral nature. The blooming season of these beloved flowers is relatively short, typically lasting only a few weeks in late spring or early summer. By planning a photo shoot centered around peonies, you can capture the fleeting beauty and delicate nature of these blossoms, freezing their splendor in time. This speaks to the transient nature of life, reminding us to appreciate the beauty that surrounds us, even if it is temporary.
In conclusion, peonies hold a mesmerizing charm that makes them an ideal choice for a photo shoot. Their timeless beauty, symbolism, versatility, captivating fragrance, and ephemeral nature all contribute to making them an irresistible subject for any photographer seeking to create captivating and emotive imagery. So, embrace the allure of peonies and embark on a visual journey that encapsulates their enchanting elegance.

Spring has sprung, and with it comes the annual bloom of the peony flowers. If you've never experienced the intoxicating fragrance of peonies before, you're in for a treat! These large puffs of flowers resemble enormous roses, but their smell is so much better.

For myself, this is a spot I have been shooting at since the beginning, in 2015. My treasured friend has a backyard that is home to these beautiful peonies, and they typically have a BBQ here every year at the peak of bloom. It's the perfect opportunity to capture memories with loved ones amidst the stunning flowers.

The family who owns the property actually sells the flowers to markets and customers all over the country, making these blooms not just a beautiful sight, but also a valuable crop.

Peonies are not just popular for their beauty and fragrance, but also for their longevity. They are hardy plants that can last for over 100 years, making them a great addition to any garden. They are also a popular choice for weddings, with their vibrant colors and size adding a touch of elegance and romance to any ceremony.

For photographers like myself, the peony blooms provide a stunning backdrop for family portraits, maternity shoots, and even sessions with older teens. With so many options, the peony fields of South Jersey are truly a photographer's paradise.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a beautiful and fragrant location for your next photography session, the peony blooms are definitely worth considering. With their stunning beauty and longevity, they are not just a sight to behold but also a valuable addition to any garden. So, grab your family and I’ll grab my camera and let’s head out to the peony fields of South Jersey for a truly memorable experience!

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Some of our favorite peony sessions throughout the year. We love it here. This is why New Jersey is called the Garden State!

Hope you’ve enjoyed some of our award-winning captures over the years, in the peonies.

We welcome you to come out to these sessions, in May of this 2023 year. They are such a joy!

Have a magical day, my friends!

Dee Giumetti

Shooting Star Photography

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Best Beach Photographer in New Jersey

Best Beach Photographer in New Jersey

Fine art whimsical beach portraits with families at the Jersey Shore can create beautiful and memorable keepsakes for years to come. Here are some tips on how to capture these types of portraits:

Ahem. Cough cough… anyone can lay claim as to the best beach photographer in New Jersey. However, I really try to be the BEST. I want to give my clients the BEST and I want them to have the BEST experience. So am I really the best? I guess that’s for you to decide. We do know we love the Jersey shore and our summers here so why not capture the same for other families?

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You can see all the fun we do here and the pastel colors we like to incorporate into our beach sessions. Hip hip hooray, it is all about having fun!

Best beach photographer in New Jersey! WE are called the "queen of beach" in the photography industry. People fly from all over to do business with us! I like being called the beach queen. I do love my sessions on the beach!

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There is something magical about the beach. We all enjoy it. It's pretty much a standard of the summer... going to the Jersey shore and relaxing at the beach. I spent YEARS learning beach photography and well, now I teach it. Photographers will tell you, this is the HARDEST thing to learn... beach photography. Due to the blinding light. the sun bouncing off the sand, the water and the open spaces.

It's one thing I have PERFECTED over the years and it's what drives my business every summer. Beach Sessions at the Jersey shore.

Whether you are at the Jersey shore on vacation, or like to go "down the shore" for the weekend, we got you covered on beautiful family beach portraits!

We service Ocean City, Sea Isle, Stone Harbor, Avalon, Cape May, Wildwood and the shore towns in between. Let us create something magical for you this summer!!! ALL CLIENTS get access to our boutique luxury wardrobe, so you don't need to even buy anything for your session. Let us take care of it for you.

All clients in these images are wearing from our client wardrobe! WE bring them to you for your magical New Jersey beach session! Let us create this magic for you and your family. It's what we love to do at Shooting Star Photography. Contact us today for your South Jersey portrait needs!

Fine art whimsical beach portraits with families at the Jersey Shore can create beautiful and memorable keepsakes for years to come. Here are some tips on how to capture these types of portraits:

  1. Find a photographer: Look for a photographer who specializes in fine art beach portraits and has experience working with families. Check their portfolio to make sure their style aligns with what you are looking for.

  2. Choose a location: Consider choosing a location that is meaningful to your family or that has a beautiful backdrop for your portraits. Some popular spots for beach portraits in South Jersey include Ocean City, Cape May, and Wildwood.

  3. Coordinate outfits: Coordinate your family's outfits to create a cohesive look for your portraits. Choose colors that complement each other and avoid wearing busy patterns or logos.

  4. Consider props: Props can add a fun and whimsical touch to your beach portraits. Bring along items like beach balls, umbrellas, or other beach-themed items that can add a playful element to your photos.

  5. Embrace natural light: The beach provides plenty of natural light, which can create a beautiful and ethereal look for your portraits. Work with your photographer to schedule your session during the golden hour, which is the hour just before sunset when the light is soft and warm.

  6. Have fun: The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the experience with your family. Relax and let your personalities shine through in your portraits, and you'll end up with beautiful and meaningful keepsakes that you can cherish for years to come.

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Magical Wildwood, New Jersey Sessions! Love those Wildwood days. Don’t you?

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Mommy and me session at the Jersey shore!

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Brother and sister shoot at Atlantic City, New Jersey!!!

If you got this far… bless your heart! Haha! However, as you can see we take beach photography seriously! Let’s have some fun this summer and make this the best beach portrait session of your life! I’ll treat you to some salt water taffy, if that’s your thing. After our shoot.

Happy shooting, my friends!

Dee

ocean city photographer

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It's Your Birthday- Let's Celebrate South Jersey!

It's Your Birthday- Let's Celebrate South Jersey!

Capturing Your Special Day:

Celebrating your birthday with a beautiful portrait session has become a cherished tradition at Shooting Star. As we step into a new year of life, I am filled with excitement and gratitude for the experiences that have shaped me. This portrait session serves as a meaningful way to freeze these emotions and the essence of the moment in time. The anticipation of selecting the perfect outfit, the meticulous attention to every detail, and the heartfelt conversations with the photographer all add to the magic of the day.

Capturing Your Special Day:


Celebrating your birthday with a beautiful portrait session has become a cherished tradition at Shooting Star. As we step into a new year of life, I am filled with excitement and gratitude for the experiences that have shaped me. This portrait session serves as a meaningful way to freeze these emotions and the essence of the moment in time. The anticipation of selecting the perfect outfit, the meticulous attention to every detail, and the heartfelt conversations with the photographer all add to the magic of the day. With each click of the camera, I want you to feel a sense of empowerment and confidence, basking in the joy of being the center of attention. The resulting portraits not only capture your physical appearance at this milestone but also reveal the depth of your emotions and the radiance of your spirit. It’s an indulgence in self-celebration and a reminder of the beauty of growth and self-love.

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Mommy and her daughter dancing among the cherry blossoms.

Hey! It's your birthday and we are going to party, like it's your birthday. Here at, Shooting Star Photography, located in beautiful, Maple Shade and Woodstown, New Jersey, we try and celebrate birthdays, to the nines!

Whether looking to capture memories of you and your family, to displaying large canvas on your walls, to enjoy years to come. We are here for you to assist all along the way!

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Little boy celebrating his birthday celebration in Cherry Hill, New Jersey!

Each and every session, we create, is unique. We love consulting with our customers to ensure the best results out of each session. Our reputation speaks for ourselves!

We have trained under the best photographers in the world, to ensure you are getting the VERY best, no matter the location at hand. We've been trained to portray you and your family/loved one's in the best light. As a South Jersey photographer, for over six years, we always provide high quality imagery for all of our customers. It's why we see families back, year after year, and often-times a few times a year.

We love making our clients laugh and having them feel at ease. It's important to us because that gets captured on camera!!! We don't want to have any awkwardness. It's about having fun. I mean, that's what life is about, right? It's important for myself to capture this for my families. I love working with children and I have two littles of my own. Ages nine and six!

Celebrate your Birthday in Portraits!


Each birthday is a unique milestone, and our goal is to capture the joy, vitality, and personality of the individual as they commemorate another year of their life journey. Our portraits serve as a beautiful way to document the passage of time and the growth of an individual, creating tangible memories that can be shared with loved ones and treasured for generations.
Through our birthday portrait sessions, we aim to provide a personalized experience that reflects the individual's personality and style. Whether it's a playful and lighthearted shoot or a more contemplative and introspective session, our photographers work closely with clients to bring their vision to life.
Furthermore, celebrating birthday portraits at Shooting Star Photography is more than just taking photos. It's a chance for individuals to embrace and express themselves, to revel in the spotlight, and to mark the significance of each passing year. It's a celebration of life, growth, and the uniqueness of every individual.
With our expertise in capturing authentic moments and emotions, we are committed to delivering high-quality birthday portraits that encapsulate the spirit of the occasion. From candid shots to artfully composed portraits, we strive to create images that resonate and endure.
At Shooting Star Photography, we take pride in being a part of our clients' special moments, and we celebrate birthday portraits as a meaningful way to honor the journey of each individual. So, come and celebrate your next birthday with us, and let us capture the magic of the moment.

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Celebrating a magical birthday!

Beautiful little Winnie the Pooh themed birthday session in South Jersey!

I hope to see you in 2021, as we are taking very strict cover precautions in every session we have been doing, for the past year! Let's create some magic!

Until we meet again and I hope you have a FANTASTIC weekend!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

South Jersey's Premiere Family Photographer

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Magical Christmas Family Sessions in Cape May, New Jersey

The Charming Small-Town Atmosphere

One of the top reasons why Cape May, NJ is a fantastic backdrop for Christmas family photography is its charming small-town atmosphere. Known for its historic Victorian architecture, the town transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday seasons. The streets are adorned with festive decorations, twinkling lights, and beautifully decorated storefronts, creating a magical ambiance for capturing memorable family moments. The picturesque streets lined with boutiques, cafes, and quaint shops provide endless opportunities for unique and enchanting photographs.

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Just in front of one of my favorite historic houses in Cape May, New Jersey.

I truly love working with all the amazing families that hire me year after year. From magical portraits, to custom family sessions on a private property, to studio sessions, we love working with families to create a rather unique experience for everyone that comes our way!

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Love this little guys bow tie and outfit! Mom dresses this kid to the nines!

Love capturing families every single Christmas!!

I truly love capturing the true essence and MAGIC for all my Philadelphia and South Jersey customers. It's all about a unique experience for all my families. I just want you to show up and smile and we take care of the rest!

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Posing in front of the Bed and Breakfast hot spots in Cape May, New Jersey.

Love being able to capture memories for my families of South Jersey!

Whether it is the Jersey shore for a beach session, a downtown photography shoot in Philadelphia, or a magical forest location in South Jersey, we have you covered. We have private locations as well as hundreds of public shooting locations that we can suggest for the best portrait experience for you and your family.

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Love the gas lamp look of Cape May, New Jersey.

Magic created on the sidewalks of Cape May, New Jersey

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Posing in front of all the cottages in Cape May, New Jersey.

Mr. Handsome Sauce at the Jersey shore. In front of the famous "cottages" in Cape May!

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On the beautiful streets of Cape May, New Jersey. Christmas is the best time at this beautiful shore resort in New Jersey.

The Charming Small-Town Atmosphere

One of the top reasons why Cape May, NJ is a fantastic backdrop for Christmas family photography is its charming small-town atmosphere. Known for its historic Victorian architecture, the town transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday seasons. The streets are adorned with festive decorations, twinkling lights, and beautifully decorated storefronts, creating a magical ambiance for capturing memorable family moments. The picturesque streets lined with boutiques, cafes, and quaint shops provide endless opportunities for unique and enchanting photographs.

Stunning Beach and Natural Landscapes

Cape May's unique location offers a delightful contrast between its charming small-town feel and its stunning beach and natural landscapes. This combination creates a diverse range of backdrops for Christmas family photography. Families can be photographed against the backdrop of sandy beaches, rolling dunes, and crashing ocean waves, capturing the essence of a seaside Christmas celebration. Additionally, the surrounding natural landscapes and Cape May Point State Park provide a beautiful setting with lush greenery, scenic trails, and wildlife, offering even more options for capturing unforgettable family moments.

Festive Events and Activities

During the holiday season, Cape May hosts a variety of festive events and activities, making it an ideal backdrop for Christmas family photography. The town offers holiday-themed trolley rides, where families can enjoy a cozy tour of Cape May's beautifully adorned streets. The annual Christmas Candlelight House Tours provide an opportunity to explore the town's historic homes, which are lavishly decorated for the holidays. Families can also attend tree lighting ceremonies, holiday parades, and Christmas concerts, immersing themselves in the festive spirit and creating memorable experiences that can be captured against the backdrop of the town's festive decorations.
In conclusion, Cape May, NJ is a great place for Christmas family photography for several reasons. Its charming small-town atmosphere, stunning beach and natural landscapes, and a wide range of festive events and activities all contribute to creating a magical backdrop for capturing cherished family moments during the holiday season.

I LOVE CAPE MAY!

There's nothing more magical then letting things just happen and being in the moment. That's what we try to do accomplish. Everyone with natural smiles.

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Cousins getting their Christmas portraits in Cape May, New Jersey!

Loved capturing these cuties. Parents are the owners of Scoopy's two ice cream!

We'd love to be considered for your next family portraits. Contact us today so that we can create something magical for you!

Until we meet again!

Happy Shooting!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography- South Jersey Photographer

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PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO IS OFFICIALLY OPEN!!!! Maple Shade, New Jersey... here we come!

Hi Maple Shade, New Jersey! Hi! How are you? I just want to thank the business community of Maple Shade for warmly welcoming us into this lovely little town in South Jersey!

Welcome to our Maple Shade, New Jersey studio! We cannot wait to service you and your family! New tile put in our front displays.

We cannot wait to be a part of beautiful Main Street. We're also looking forward to creating life-lasting magical memories for you and your family. This is our heart and our soul.

We want to be a part of your own family's heart and soul. We know 2020 was rough, but my goal is to take all that away. Offer you a warm welcome and not forget these moments.

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Our South Jersey photography studio, is here to capture memories for you and your family!

Every session that is booked with us, we lovingly edit to perfection. Our goal is to make this completely customizable for you. We would love to hear your ideas.

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Our beautiful wall art and chandelier. WE love mixing a little fancy in with some old and new!

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Come on in! We got you covered with multiple backgrounds to choose from!

Let's start this year off right. I think 2021 is going to be an incredible year. I cannot wait to put 2020 in the past. I am sure we all can relate!

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A little bling added to the bathroom!

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Don't forget to wash your hands :)

Feel free to contact us, we will welcome you with open arms to the Shooting Star Photography family. Thank you for being a HUGE part of making this happen... South Jersey!!!

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