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.

Seasonal Sessions Shooting Star Photography Seasonal Sessions Shooting Star Photography

Philadelphia, PA Wildflower Portraits

Discover why magical unicorn photo sessions create unforgettable childhood memories with fine art portraits in an enchanted South Jersey forest.

Title: Wildflower Magic in Full Bloom: From Peonies to Zinnias in the Philadelphia Region

A real wildflower field in South Jersey used for fine art family and child portrait sessions by Shooting Star Photography.

🌸 A peek at one of our real wildflower fields in South Jersey — where kids twirl, moms laugh, and unforgettable portraits are made. 🌸

Wildflower season in the Philadelphia region is fleeting, colorful, and full of quiet magic. These sessions aren’t about perfect poses or stiff smiles — they’re about movement, laughter, and letting kids be exactly who they are in the moment.

At Shooting Star Photography, our wildflower portraits are designed as seasonal fine art experiences, using real flower fields in South Jersey and styled details that let the scenery and emotion take center stage.

vintage-style-girl-holding-peonies-nj-wildflower.jpg

💐 Because someday, you’ll want to remember her just like this—wild and wonderful in a field of flowers. 💐

A Season That Evolves With Every Bloom

Wildflower season is never just one look — it changes week by week, bloom by bloom. From soft spring florals to bold summer color, each session reflects what nature is offering at that moment.

Vintage-inspired child portrait in full bloom lavender field in New Jersey

💐 Proof that fairy tales grow in Jersey. 🌼

Rather than recreating the same setup over and over, we embrace the rhythm of the season. Every field, every sunset, and every session tells its own story — resulting in portraits that feel unique, personal, and rooted in the moment they were created.

Sunset over a sunflower field with a girl looking into the distance, styled session by Shooting Star Photography.

Nature’s backdrop. Styled sessions. Pure magic in every bloom.

A Fine Art Approach to Floral Portraits

These sessions are intentionally styled and guided, while still leaving room for spontaneity. Children are encouraged to explore, move, and be themselves, creating imagery that feels natural rather than posed.

Whether it’s a quiet moment in tall blooms or a burst of laughter during golden hour, the focus is always on emotion, connection, and storytelling — the elements that turn a photograph into something lasting.

Young girl in a vintage dress standing in a wildflower field during golden hour in South Jersey.

Just a girl, a golden hour, and a field full of wonder.

Styling With Intention

Styling plays an important role in the final look of each session. Wardrobe pieces and accessories are thoughtfully curated to complement the season, color palette, and setting, allowing the flowers and light to remain the focus.

Young girl in vintage clothing looking out over a colorful zinnia field during a golden hour photo session in South Jersey.

Little feet. Big blooms. A timeless story told in petals and lace.

Guidance is provided every step of the way so families feel confident, comfortable, and prepared — without stress or guesswork.

🌸 Soft fabrics, gentle movement, and natural light work together to create a cohesive fine art aesthetic.

A Seasonal Experience Families Return To

Wildflower sessions have become a favorite for families who value imagery that feels emotional, artistic, and timeless. These portraits aren’t about trends — they’re about preserving a season of childhood, connection, and beauty exactly as it felt.

Families often return year after year, watching their children grow while the fields change around them.

Serving the Philadelphia Region & Surrounding Areas

Shooting Star Photography welcomes families from the Philadelphia region and nearby areas for seasonal wildflower portrait sessions. Each session is photographed in carefully selected outdoor locations that allow space for creativity, movement, and authentic moments.

A young girl wearing a soft pink dress gently picking wildflowers in a sunlit field during golden hour, with the warm glow of the sunset casting a magical light around her.

Chasing sunsets and picking dreams, one flower at a time 🌸✨

If you’ve ever dreamed of portraits that feel like they belong in a storybook — this season may be for you.

Ready to Create Something Timeless?

Wildflower season is brief, but the memories last far beyond the blooms.

To explore current seasonal offerings and availability, visit our Seasonal Portraits page for details.

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

peacefully sitting amidst a vibrant lavender field, surrounded by rows of fragrant purple blooms under a clear sky.

Lost in a sea of lavender dreams and quiet moments 💜🌿

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Mini Sessions Shooting Star Photography Mini Sessions Shooting Star Photography

A Few Weeks of Pink: Inside Our Cherry Blossom Portrait Season

A look inside our cherry blossom portrait season, featuring soft spring light, fine art styling, and timeless portraits for children, families, and maternity sessions in South Jersey.

There are a few weeks each spring when New Jersey feels like it belongs in a storybook — and cherry blossom season is one of them.

Soft pink petals, warm spring light, and blooms that never last quite long enough. If you’ve ever dreamed of portraits that feel romantic, timeless, and quietly magical, this is your moment.

Each spring, I offer Cherry Blossom Mini Sessions in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, and they remain one of the most anticipated seasonal experiences of the year.

A Spring Setting That Never Gets Old

Cherry blossom portraits are light, airy, and full of movement. These sessions are designed to feel natural and effortless — children twirl, parents laugh, and moments unfold organically beneath the blooms.

Whether you’re celebrating:

  • your child’s personality at this age

  • a spring maternity season

  • or finally getting that family portrait you’ve been putting off

cherry blossoms create the perfect backdrop for something soft, emotional, and beautiful.

What’s Included in the Cherry Blossom Mini Sessions

cherry-blossom-photo-girl-south-jersey.jpg

🌸 Cherry Blossom Mini Session
🌸 10–15 minute session (because toddlers have opinions)
🌸 3 professionally edited fine art images
🌸 Access to my Client Closet — gowns for girls, maternity, and mommy & me
🌸 Fully styled and guided so all you have to do is show up and enjoy

These sessions are ideal for children, families, maternity portraits, or a simple spring refresh.

Styled, Simple, and Stress-Free

Closeup of a girl twirling in a Dollcake gown surrounded by cherry blossoms at sunset in South Jersey.

Every detail is thoughtfully planned — from wardrobe guidance to posing that feels natural instead of stiff. I’ll help guide movement, connection, and flow so your images feel emotional and timeless rather than overly posed.

Soft fabrics, gentle color palettes, and natural light work together to create a cohesive fine art look that feels effortless on camera.

Limited Seasonal Availability

Cherry blossoms bloom quickly — and disappear just as fast.

These sessions are offered for a short time each spring, with limited availability to preserve the experience and the light.

🎀 VIEW CURRENT AVAILABILITY
👗 Curious about wardrobe options? Explore my Client Closet for styling inspiration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the cherry blossom mini sessions located?
Cherry Hill, New Jersey. Exact location details are shared after booking.

Are these sessions just for kids?
Not at all. These are perfect for children, families, maternity, or mommy & me portraits.

Can we use outfits from your client closet?
Yes — gowns and styling options are available for girls, maternity, and moms.

Can we purchase more images?
Absolutely. Additional images and upgrades are available after your session.

A Spring Tradition Families Return To

Girl in a pink dress twirling in the cherry blossoms at sunset in South Jersey. Perfect for spring photo shoots.

Cherry Blossom Mini Sessions have become a favorite for families who love portraits that feel soft, emotional, and timeless. Many return year after year — watching their children grow while the blossoms change around them.

If cherry blossoms have ever made you stop and stare… this might be your season.

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

Whether you’re booking for your child, a maternity glow-up, or to finally get that perfect spring family portrait—this session is for you.

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Family Photography in Millville NJ | in Cumberland County

Capture family love in Millville, NJ with captivating backdrops in Cumberland County. Book a session with Shooting Star Photography your NJ photographer.

Millville NJ | Cumberland County | A Captivating Backdrop for Your Family Photo Shoot


Cumberland County, located in the charming state of New Jersey, holds a treasure trove of captivating landscapes and diverse settings that make it an exceptional choice for your upcoming family photo shoot. From picturesque coastal areas to quaint rural backdrops, this county offers a plethora of options to ensure that your family portraits are infused with a distinct and enchanting charm. Here's why Cumberland County, NJ, is an awesome backdrop for your family photo shoot.

Collage of fall family photo session in Millville, New Jersey, featuring toddler son, mom, and dad in cozy sweaters, captured by a top Philadelphia photographer.


1. Coastal Beauty in Cumberland County

Millville and surrounding areas boast stunning coastal areas along the Delaware Bay, making it an ideal location for capturing timeless family memories with a flair of serenity. Whether you choose to pose against the backdrop of golden sand dunes or dance underneath the picturesque sunset, the invigorating beach atmosphere and tranquil waters offer an unparalleled setting for your family photography.

Boy in a cozy sweater on a vintage rocking horse during a family photo shoot in Millville, New Jersey, near Lake Audrey, by a South Jersey photographer, featuring a family portrait session in Cumberland County.

2. Rich History in Millville

For families inclined towards a nostalgic ambiance, Cumberland County's historical sites weave an enchanting tale. From the beautiful architecture of Bridgeton's downtown district to the historic buildings in Greenwich, this county is a treasure trove of picturesque locations. The fusion of timeless elegance and the deep-rooted history ingrained in these sites will surely add a touch of sophistication and character to your family portraits.

Mom and her son posing together during a family photo shoot in Cumberland County, Millville, near Lake Audrey, captured by a South Jersey photographer, specializing in family portraits for the Philadelphia area.

3. Rural Family Charm:

The county's rural landscapes present an idyllic milieu for capturing natural and candid family moments. From vast farmlands to enchanting orchards, Cumberland County offers a rustic charm that allows your family's love and connection to shine through effortlessly. Stroll through the blooming fields, play hide-and-seek amidst the rows of corn, or gather around the hay bales—these simple yet captivating backdrops will exude a genuine sense of joy and togetherness in your photographs.

Dad and son smiling during a family photo shoot at Lake Audrey in Millville, NJ. Captured by a New Jersey photographer specializing in family portraits for South Jersey and the Philadelphia area.


4. Seasonal Beauty:

Depending on the time of year, Cumberland County showcases breathtaking seasonal beauty that can enhance the allure of your family portraits. In the spring, frolic amidst the colorful cherry blossom trees or explore the vibrant gardens bursting with tulips. In the fall, embrace the warm hues of the foliage and engage in delightful activities such as apple picking or pumpkin carving. The county's dynamic seasons ensure that each photo shoot captures the essence of the moment and reflects the unique charm of each season.

Boy posing with his mom and dad during a family photo shoot at Lake Audrey in Millville, Cumberland County, NJ. Captured by a New Jersey family photographer specializing in South Jersey and Philadelphia family portraits.


5. Community Spirit:

Cumberland County is home to a vibrant and diverse community, whose warmth and welcoming nature exude an irresistible positive energy. Whether you wish to incorporate the local culture, festivals, or events into your family photo shoot, the county's rich community spirit will infuse your portraits with a strong sense of belonging and unity.


Cumberland County, NJ, is a treasure trove of magnificent backdrops, seamlessly blending coastal beauty, rich history, rural charm, seasonal delights, and a strong community spirit. Its diversity and natural wonders serve as a perfect setting for your family to shine in front of the camera, creating memories that will be cherished for generations to come. So, embark on an adventure and let Cumberland County be the canvas for your family's story in the form of breathtaking photographs.

Mom and dad swinging their son in the air at Lake Audrey in Millville, NJ. Family photo shoot captured by a South Jersey and Philadelphia photographer.
First birthday photo shoot in South Jersey. Boy on rocking horse in sweater, looking at the camera. Captured by a South Jersey photographer.

Goodbye Summer, Hello Fall in Millville, NJ!

Wow, can you believe summer is officially coming to an end? This Labor Day weekend brought a crisp change in the air, with temperatures dipping into the upper 60s—sweater weather already! As the seasons shift, we're gearing up for an exciting fall here in South Jersey, especially in beautiful Millville and the surrounding areas.

At Shooting Star Photography, we’re thrilled to work with families, children, and soon-to-be moms (maternity photography holds a special place in my heart). Fall is all about warm, earthy tones, natural light, and capturing the pure joy and innocence of the season. Below, you’ll find highlights from last year’s sessions, showcasing the magic we love to create.

Our calendar is already packed for the rest of the year, and we’re so grateful for all the support from Millville, South Jersey, and even Philadelphia! This year has been nothing short of incredible, and we can’t wait to finish it strong.

Mom and dad in beautiful lighting at Lake Audrey, Cumberland County. Family photo shoot by a New Jersey photographer, capturing love in South Jersey.

What’s New for Fall 2025?

  • Mini Sessions:

  • We’ve introduced four unique themes this year—Unicorn, Princess at a Castle, City Sessions, and Tree Farm sessions. These mini sessions were booked out quickly (thank you, everyone!).

  • Luxury Additions: We’re bringing in new high-end dresses, gorgeous maternity gowns, fresh locations, and even a snow machine to make this fall and winter extra magical.

  • Seasonal Vibes: We love those rich, warm fall tones and are embracing them for every session this season.

As life picks up with back-to-school routines and holiday preparations, we know how busy things can get. That’s why we’re here to make your photography experience stress-free, fun, and memorable.

Thank You, Millville and Beyond!


To all our amazing clients from Millville, South Jersey, and Philadelphia, thank you for trusting us to capture your precious memories. We’re excited to wow you with more breathtaking sessions this fall and winter.

If you’re planning for next year, keep an eye out—we’ll be announcing our new calendar soon. For now, enjoy the crisp air, pumpkin spice everything, and the beauty of fall in South Jersey!

Playing ring around the rosy as a family at Lake Audrey, Millville NJ. Family photo shoot by a New Jersey photographer capturing joyful moments in South Jersey.

Happy Shooting, my friends! Hope to see you this year!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography    

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Unicorn Birthday Portraits in NJ Forest | Family Photography

Capture magical birthday memories with our unicorn-themed portrait sessions in the serene forest of Glassboro, New Jersey—where fantasy and joy come to life!

Every child dreams of a birthday filled with wonder and magic, and what better way to celebrate than with a unicorn-themed portrait session in the serene forest of Glassboro, New Jersey? Our unicorn birthday sessions are a perfect blend of fantasy, nature, and joy, capturing memories that will last a lifetime. Let’s dive into what makes this experience truly extraordinary.

Magical birthday photo shoot with sisters in dresses, posing with a unicorn in a forest setting in New Jersey.

A Fairy Tale Come to Life

Imagine your little one stepping into a lush forest, where sunlight filters through the trees, and a majestic unicorn awaits. Our enchanting location in Glassboro sets the scene for whimsical portraits that feel straight out of a storybook. With the soft rustle of leaves and the gentle presence of our unicorn, your child will feel like the star of their own fairy tale.

What’s Included in the Experience

We take pride in providing an all-inclusive session, making the day as stress-free and magical as possible for parents and children alike. Here’s what’s included:

  • The Unicorn: A beautifully adorned, gentle unicorn (a real horse dressed in safe and elegant accessories) is the star of the session. Its calm demeanor ensures a safe and delightful experience for your child.

  • Wardrobe: A curated selection of dresses, tutus, and accessories to suit the theme, allowing your little one to shine.

  • Custom Styling: From floral crowns to glittering details, we handle all the styling to bring the vision to life.

  • Professional Photography: With over ten years of experience in fine art photography, we craft hand-edited images that highlight your child’s unique personality and the magical atmosphere.

Magical birthday photo shoot with girls kissing a unicorn in a forest in New Jersey, captured by a South Jersey photographer.
Girl sitting on top of a unicorn for her birthday portraits in a magical setting, captured by a South Jersey photographer.

Why Choose a Unicorn Session for a Birthday?

Unicorn sessions are more than just a photo shoot—they’re an experience. Here’s why they’re perfect for birthdays:

  • Unforgettable Memories: These sessions are designed to make your child feel special, creating a birthday celebration they’ll talk about for years.

  • Unique and Personal: Unlike typical birthday parties, a unicorn portrait session is a one-of-a-kind way to celebrate, tailored to your child’s imagination and personality.

  • Keepsakes for Life: The stunning portraits become treasured mementos, perfect for displaying at home or sharing with loved ones.

The Forest of Glassboro: A Perfect Backdrop

The forest of Glassboro is a hidden gem in South Jersey, offering natural beauty that enhances the magic of our sessions. Towering trees, soft mossy floors, and dappled sunlight create a dreamy setting that complements the unicorn theme perfectly. Each photograph captures not just the subject but the serenity and charm of this picturesque location.

Birthday portrait of a girl holding a unicorn, wearing a crown and a pretty blue dress, captured in a magical mini session by a NJ portrait photographer
Girls twirling in gorgeous princess dresses, looking at each other, captured by a Cherry Hill, New Jersey unicorn photographer for a magical birthday session.

How to Book Your Unicorn Birthday Portrait Session

Ready to give your child a birthday experience like no other? Booking is simple! Visit our website www.shootingstarsouthjersey.com to check availability and reserve your date. Our sessions are highly sought after, so we recommend booking early to secure your spot.

Two girls posing for their magical unicorn portraits in Glassboro, New Jersey, captured by a top NJ portrait photographer.

Final Thoughts

A unicorn birthday portrait session in the forest of Glassboro is more than just a photo opportunity—it’s a magical adventure. Let us help you create a celebration filled with wonder, joy, and memories that will last a lifetime. Contact us today to make your child’s birthday dreams come true!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

Check out our Unicorn Portfolio







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South Jersey Family Photographer | Voorhees NJ | Golden Hour

Capture family memories in Voorhees with South Jersey Family Photographer. From forest trails to golden fields, book with Shooting Star Photography now!

From Forest Trails to Golden Fields, and a Couture Sunset Finale

Voorhees NJ | NJ Family Photography | South Jersey Portraits

When I think about why I love photography, it’s sessions like this recent family shoot in Voorhees that remind me. There’s just something special about finding the perfect location, creating a comfortable atmosphere, and capturing moments that families will cherish for a lifetime. Voorhees offered everything we could have asked for and more—a dreamy mix of lush forests, a peaceful lake, and breathtaking wheat-colored fields glowing in the golden hour.

Family photography session in Voorhees, NJ. Family dressed in blues, creating a striking contrast with the warm tones of the background for a perfect NJ portrait.

Setting the Scene: A Photographer’s Dream in Voorhees NJ

Voorhees is truly a hidden gem for outdoor photography. It’s one of those spots where you don’t need to travel far to get a variety of backdrops.

We started our session with a walk through the wooded trails. The soft green canopy provided shade and the kind of natural framing that makes every shot feel like it’s straight out of a storybook. After capturing some tender family moments, we moved down toward the lake. The sunlight danced off the water, and the whole family seemed to relax even more as we enjoyed the serenity of the space. Finally, we wrapped up the first part of the shoot in a field filled with tall, wheat-colored grasses swaying in the breeze. This spot was pure magic, especially as the sun dipped lower into the sky.

Family portrait in Voorhees, NJ. The family sharing a candid, loving moment as they look at each other, capturing the beauty of unposed, natural connections in this NJ portrait session.

Family First: Creating Timeless Memories

The session began with the entire family—mom, dad, and their two daughters. We captured a mix of posed and candid shots, highlighting the love and connection between them. I always aim to tell a story through my sessions, and this family’s story was one of joy, closeness, and a little bit of fun.

Mom and Dad shared a quiet laugh while the girls twirled in the fields nearby. There’s something about the in-between moments that make a shoot like this so special. Whether it was the way Mom gently brushed a strand of hair out of her youngest daughter’s face or Dad’s booming laugh at a shared joke, every moment felt real, unfiltered, and full of love.

Mom and her two daughters posing for portraits in the forest of South Jersey, surrounded by the beauty of nature during their NJ family photo session.
Dad posing with his two daughters in Voorhees, NJ for a family portrait session, capturing a tender moment of love and connection.

Couture Dreams for the Sisters

After the family portraits, it was time for something extra special. The two sisters got to dress up in couture gowns from my collection. These dresses are designed to make little ones feel like princesses, and the girls absolutely lit up when they saw them.

As the golden hour painted the landscape in warm hues, the girls twirled, laughed, and danced through the fields. The dresses shimmered in the light, adding an extra layer of magic to the session. Watching them have fun, completely in their element, was a joy not just for their parents but for me as a photographer. These are the moments that go beyond the camera—the kind that become core memories.

Girl in a pink dress twirling around the lake in a beautiful New Jersey portrait session, capturing the magic and joy of childhood.
Little girl in a rainbow-colored dress twirling in the sunlight during a vibrant New Jersey portrait session, capturing the playful spirit of childhood.
Two girls smiling at each other at sunset during a family portrait session in Voorhees, New Jersey, capturing the warmth and connection between siblings.

Capturing the Sunset

There’s no better time to wrap up a shoot than during sunset. The light is soft, golden, and utterly flattering. The sisters had the time of their lives, chasing each other and spinning around as the sun dipped below the horizon.

For me, the real reward was seeing their parents’ faces as they watched their girls. You could feel the love radiating from them, their pride and joy as clear as the sunset behind us. It’s moments like these that remind me why I do what I do.

Gorgeous golden light illuminating a family portrait session in South Jersey, creating a warm and magical atmosphere.

Why This Location Stood Out

What I loved most about shooting in Voorhees was the variety it offered. We didn’t feel rushed to capture everything in one spot, and each background added something unique to the final gallery of images.

  • The forest provided a lush, shaded space for intimate family moments.

  • The lake added a serene, reflective quality to the photos.

  • The fields brought everything together with a soft, natural glow that made the couture dresses shine.

Every location complemented the family’s energy and the mood we were trying to capture.

Girl in a pink dress twirling joyfully during her magical portrait session with Shooting Star Photography in South Jersey.

Final Thoughts: A Session Filled with Joy and Connection

At the end of the day, this session in Voorhees was about more than just beautiful pictures. It was about creating an experience for the family—one where they could relax, be themselves, and enjoy each other’s company.

For me, photography is about connection. It’s about freezing time for just a moment so families can look back and relive the joy, love, and even the laughter. This session had all of that and more, and I’m so grateful to have been a part of it.

If you're considering a family photo session in Voorhees or anywhere in South Jersey, I’d love to help you create your own magical experience. From stunning locations to couture touches, let’s make memories you’ll treasure forever. Reach out to book your session today!

Learn more and check out our Portfolio

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

Photographer Serving South Jersey and the Greater Philadelphia Area

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