Fine Art Family Photography Stories & Resources
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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Marlton New Jersey | Fine Art Photography Blogging
A Marlton NJ portrait photographer's journey into daily blogging—62 days in and counting! Follow along as I share insights, fun stories, and my passion.
Why I Started Daily Blogging as a Photographer
Welcome to my corner of the internet, where pixels meet passion and snapshots tell stories. As a portrait photographer with ten amazing years in this industry, I’m on a mission to capture life's fleeting moments.
Since December 26th, 2023, I’ve embarked on a daily blogging adventure, pouring my heart and soul into every post. Some days, I’ve even written two or three posts! My goal? To make it to a full year. Today, I’m 62 days in. What is it they say? It takes 21 days to form a habit. Well, I’m at 8 weeks now, so hopefully, this habit will stick—even when things ramp up during the busy photography season from spring to fall!
Bloggy blog blog blog lol.
The Unexpected Benefits of Blogging Daily as a Photographer
1. Unleashing Creativity and Reflection
Behind every portrait lies a narrative waiting to unfold. Through daily blogging, I find solace in weaving stories, sharing insights, and reflecting on the beauty around me. Each blog post becomes a canvas where I paint with words, immersing myself in storytelling while uncovering new depths in my craft.
2. Embracing Imperfection & Authenticity
In photography, perfection is an elusive muse. But through blogging, I’ve learned to embrace imperfection. From candid anecdotes to behind-the-scenes bloopers, my blog offers a glimpse into the messy, marvelous world of portrait photography—where the imperfections often create the most memorable moments.
3. Building Community & Connection
Despite the vast and sometimes impersonal digital landscape, daily blogging has allowed me to connect with fellow photographers, clients, and enthusiasts. Through comments, shares, and conversations, my blog has become a space where kindred spirits celebrate creativity and inspire one another.
4. Boosting SEO & Website Traffic
Let’s talk business! Blogging daily has significantly improved my website’s search rankings. Google loves fresh content, and consistent blogging has helped attract new visitors looking for South Jersey photographers, NJ family photographers, and portrait photography near me—all key phrases I naturally include in my posts.
5. Strengthening My Writing & Storytelling
Just as every photoshoot presents an opportunity for growth, daily blogging has sharpened my writing skills. Whether I’m sharing a behind-the-scenes moment, a lesson learned, or a client’s heartwarming story, each post strengthens my ability to tell a compelling narrative.
How Daily Blogging is Helping My Photography Business
Blogging isn’t just about storytelling—it’s also about strategy! Here’s how blogging daily has positively impacted my business:
Increased Website Traffic: Regularly updated content attracts more visitors and improves my search engine rankings.
Building Brand Authority: Sharing insights and expertise consistently establishes me as a trusted photographer.
Generating More Client Leads: The more content I put out, the more potential clients find me.
Enhancing My Workflow: Blogging in the morning sets a productive tone for the rest of my workday.
Confidence in My Voice: Blogging daily has given me the freedom to express myself, boosting my confidence in my writing and storytelling.
My Workflow: How I Fit Blogging into My Day
People often ask me how I find the time to blog daily. Here’s the simple truth: I make it a priority.
My typical workflow looks like this:
Morning Routine: Start my day by blogging with a fresh cup of coffee.
Check Emails & Client Inquiries: Stay connected with clients and upcoming projects.
Editing Sessions: Dive into retouching and fine art edits for client galleries.
Client Communication & Social Media Updates: Engage with my audience.
End-of-Day Review: Plan content for the next day’s blog post.
By incorporating blogging into my workflow, I ensure that I’m doing at least one great thing for my business every single day!
The boy at the end… Doesn’t look like he’s happy lol. Maybe a brain freeze? Hahaha
Final Thoughts: Why I’ll Keep Blogging
Blogging has been an unexpected joy, a personal challenge, and an incredible business tool. It has given me a space to reflect, refine my voice, and connect with others who share a passion for photography and storytelling. As I continue this journey, I invite you to follow along, whether you’re a fellow photographer, a curious reader, or someone who simply loves beautiful stories.
So, here’s to many more blog posts, to finding joy in the process, and to growing as both a photographer and storyteller. If you’re a photographer thinking about starting a blog—do it. You might be surprised at the magic you create along the way.
Happy Shooting… I mean blogging… my friends!
Dee
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!
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.
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!
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.
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
