My Photography Session Prep Sheet and Style Guide

The Importance of Prepping for Your Photo Shoot

Prepping for your photo shoot is crucial for ensuring that you achieve the best results and have a smooth, stress-free session. Here are several reasons why prepping is essential:

1. Clarity of Vision

Prepping helps you clarify your vision for the photo shoot. It allows you to define the style, mood, and overall look you want to achieve, which guides all other aspects of the shoot.

2. Logistics and Coordination

Proper preparation ensures that all logistical details are taken care of, such as securing the location, obtaining permits if needed, arranging for hair and makeup, and coordinating with the photography team.

3. Time Management

Prepping helps in managing time effectively. When all the elements are well-planned, it minimizes downtime during the shoot, making the most of the available time and maximizing productivity.

4. Comfort and Confidence

Being well-prepared helps everyone involved in the shoot feel more comfortable and confident. Whether it's the model, the photographer, or the entire crew, knowing that everything is organized helps reduce stress and fosters a more relaxed, creative atmosphere.

5. Equipment Readiness

Preparing includes ensuring that all equipment is in working order, charged, and packed. This minimizes the risk of technical issues disrupting the shoot and allows for seamless transitions between different shots.

6. Creative Direction

A well-prepped shoot allows for more focus on the creative direction. With logistics and technical details taken care of, there's more mental and emotional space to explore and experiment with different poses, angles, and expressions, resulting in more dynamic and compelling photographs.

Yep, things are changing around here. I am a picky photographer. I have to be. This is my livelihood and honestly, I want folks to get the very best out of their session when working with me!  It's good to be picky! I am a bit of a snob when it comes to light too. I love light and I have strict standards to when I like to shoot outdoors to give the very best and to put you in the best light... NO PUN INTENDED.Here's my general guide... Yes, it's long... but you want the best in the Philadelphia and New Jersey region, right? 

Shooting Star Photography Styled Session Prep Sheet

Since I am offering stylized sessions, this is a great list of information on prepping you with your photo shoot with Shooting Star Photography.

Maternity Preparation

I bring about 3 gowns for you to choose from.  Please no flip flops as they do not photograph well. Closed toe shoes, boots, going barefoot, or neutral colored sandals are preferred and photograph the best.I will also bring some headpieces to choose from.  Please wear your hair to your liking. I prefer hair down either straight or curly.

Undergarments

Please bring nude boy shorts or underwear.  Preferably a nude strapless bra or nude bra in general.  I do not provide these items due to hygienic purposes.

Makeup

Please keep makeup as simple as possible. Dark/heavy makeup do not mix well for outdoor portraits as you will be moving around and will probably sweat a little.Please bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated. We include immediate family (if you have other children) and the father in the beginning of your session so please plan your outfit accordingly.  Towards the end, we will ask you to change and do some formal shots with the father and then the formals of yourself. We will have an assistant on hand to help you with whatever you need.

Children's Prep Sheet

At this time, I only have dresses and gowns for girls ages 1-14. We do have a few boy's items. Please inquire.We pull about 3 items for a half hour shoot and about 5-7 items for an hour shoot. We currently do not provide a current list of dresses in our inventory. We do like to freshly cycle them so that we aren't photographing the same dress all the time.Please arrive 15 minutes early so that we may dress you in a wardrobe prior to the start of your session.Make sure child is wearing neutral undergarments. Is clean. Trust me, I know how kids can be. I have two myself. Also, check for any boogers.  I know it's gross yes, but editing out boogers is no fun either.Please bring a few pairs of dress shoes as we do not provide this for our clients. Preferably, white, silver, gold, black or neutrals as they can go with anything.Makeup, I do not recommended makeup on any child as I like them to be children. I do not alter appearances as other photographers do and will not alter a child's appearance other than skin correction.We also have a wide arrangement of headpieces to choose from.

I will not liquify ribs, alter ears, eyes, give nose jobs or slim a child. Under NO CIRCUMSTANCE WHATSOEVER. I want your child to have a fun experience and feel like a princess.  They will be treated as one!Please bring some water and snacks so that we can take breaks throughout the session and your child can take a few moments for themselves.

Family Sessions

At this time we do not have a full inventory to style an entire family session. However, we can provide you with some great tips.Attention to detail is everything, including socks! Especially for men, we can see your socks in certain posing placements. Also, please keep phones out of pockets and hair ands off of wrists.  We will also do a quick check before we start our session.Wear neutral colors, pastels or jeweled tones. Prints are okay, but nothing too loud.Textures film well. So if you have silks, chiffons, feathers, tulle, these are great choices to wear on camera!As above, no heavy makeup.

Keep it light and fresh. Bring some snacks and drinks for the kids and please make sure they are well-rested prior to their session.You can always shoot me a text or email, if undecided in a wardrobe selection. We are here to help!Wardrobe selection,  as well as light, are the two most important roles in your photographs.  Believe it or not, location plays the third role, not first. Please trust me on locations that I provide.

FYI, You will probably think I am showing up like a bum to your session. I normally wear tights, boots and either a blouse or sweater. You will see me mostly rolling around in  the dirt (yes, I am very dirty after each session) or you will be seeing me trampling through mud. I take this job very seriously for my clients! My assistant is usually in much more presentable attire. Please don't judge me.

Now Time For The Fun!

All sessions will take place about an hour to an hour and a half prior to sunset. On particular beaches, we may start about a half hour prior to sunset and work with the light when it has set. No exceptions. I am very strict when I shoot because I like to provide my clients with the best!I do not double book days.  I only do one session per day, which is why it is very important to pay your retainer and lock in the date you want. As dates book up quickly, even weekdays.

In the case of inclement weather, we will reschedule and if we are unable to reschedule, you will receive your retainer back.I hope

I have provided you with a great list going forward! I am a bit picky, but this is why people choose me. These are memories you will have forever and attention to every detail is very important to me!Please feel free to reach out with any other questions!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Spring in South Jersey: A Season of Renewal

As the warm sun rises higher in the sky, South Jersey comes alive with the vibrant colors and sweet scents of spring. The arrival of spring heralds the awakening of nature from its winter slumber, transforming the landscape into a picturesque tapestry of blooming flowers, lush greenery, and clear blue skies.
The cherry blossoms in Haddonfield, the tulip fields in Hammonton, and the daffodil gardens in Vineland burst into a riot of color, drawing locals and visitors alike to witness nature's magnificent display. With the gentle breeze carrying the fragrance of blossoms and the chorus of birdsong filling the air, South Jersey becomes a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.

As a photographer at Shooting Star Photography LLC, I am captivated by the ethereal beauty of spring in South Jersey. It offers a myriad of opportunities to capture the essence of this season of renewal. From the tender buds unfurling against a backdrop of clear blue skies to the delicate dance of butterflies and bees among the blossoms, there is no shortage of awe-inspiring moments to preserve through the lens.

Walking through the verdant landscapes and quaint townships, I am inspired by the sense of new beginnings that permeates the atmosphere. The picturesque settings provide the perfect backdrop for capturing the joy and vitality that spring brings to the region. Whether it's a family frolicking in a field of wildflowers or a couple strolling hand in hand along a tree-lined path, the beauty of spring in South Jersey lends itself to creating timeless and evocative photographs.

Spring in South Jersey is more than just a change in the weather—it's a celebration of life, beauty, and the promise of new beginnings. As the natural world comes alive with color, light, and energy, I look forward to capturing the essence of this enchanting season through my lens, preserving fleeting moments that encapsulate the spirit of spring in all its glory.

Oh... my.... goodness!!!  The weather has been FANTASTIC lately. For March, it has been pretty mild! EEEEEEK!!!! The magnolias have bloomed earlier than normal.. I have a terraced garden and it's truly incredible to look out at what is in bloom.  The narcissus, magnolia, white willow, magnolias, hellebores, hyacinths and periwinkle giving me a beautiful dance right now. It's like winter's hibernation is finally over and spring is officially here!!! It's new beginnings for me this year and am treading on different waters. I am starting off fresh and offering something very different to the entire Philadelphia area... STYLIZED SESSIONS!!!! Yes, you got that right!

Stylized Sessions To The Spring Mix

Why waste money on something you may only wear once or twice?  I bring a great selection of gowns with me to every single session in your size and time permitting, you can slip on anything you like. My house is starting to look more like a boutique, haha! I want you to feel like a million buckaroos!!! I am so happy to be able to provide this to all my clients!  I want my clients to feel and look beautiful as this is will be a very special memory that I will be capturing for a lifetime.Currently, I am offering clothing/dresses for all girls ages 2-14.  I have a variety of different styles and colors.  ALL MATERNITY SESSIONS ARE STYLED.  I have just started purchasing gowns for women (so please inquire, I MAY have your size) and boys.  I have a few suits, ties, suspenders, hats. I will eventually have some pieces for men. I also provide headpieces in beautiful chiffons, silk, lace, crowns, feathers and everything in between!!! My goal is to provide a luxuriant service to all my customers!  From start to finish!

This is why we've only been in business for a year and have had clients return 4 or 5 times! We LOVE them! and guess what? I love you, too!

New Photography Locations!

On the horizon are unique session offerings. I will be offering sessions in azalea, lavender, daylily, sunflower and gladiola fields.  Unfortunately, the peonies and cherry blossoms have been sold out this year!  But... maybe again for next year? However, I have hundreds of scouted locations (including some private properties that I have available). We will do our best to give you what you want!!! I think in my next posting, I might show a little of the dresses I have accumulated! I think you will fall in love! I have over 30 more dresses coming in and a few special order princess crowns!How we work is... you tell us your size or sizes needed... and I bring a hand-picked selection for you to choose from. I also bring headpieces!

You can have as many wardrobe changes within your session time period. I want you to enjoy your experience. I also bring an assistant with me to give you the best we have to offer!  This assistant helps with getting smiles, helping you dress, watching for any fly away hairs, getting you a drink, if you need it... They are here to help!!! 

We've also opened up to servicing Delaware (love me some Delaware, it's actually not the far from me), the Philadelphia metro market and even central Jersey this year!!! YES!!! We will come to you!

 Well... I look forward to hearing from you soon!  Thank you for stopping by and happy shooting, my friends!!!

Dee Giumetti

Top 20 Facebook Photography Groups You Should Join

Top 20 Must-Join Facebook Photography Groups

Are you looking to elevate your photography skills and connect with fellow enthusiasts? Joining Facebook photography groups can be an excellent way to learn, share, and gain inspiration. Here's a curated list of top 20 Facebook photography groups that you should consider joining to up your game:

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned photographer, these Facebook groups offer valuable opportunities to learn, connect, and grow as a photography enthusiast. Join the ones that align with your interests and unleash your creativity!

Beautiful light at Lake Audrey, New Jersey.

Set me free at Weymouth Furnace.

Joining Facebook groups as a budding photographer is a fantastic way to enhance your skills, knowledge, and network in the photography community. These groups provide a unique platform to connect with like-minded individuals who share the same passion and interest in photography. By joining these groups, you gain access to a wealth of valuable information, tips, and tricks shared by experienced photographers. Additionally, it opens up opportunities to collaborate, participate in photo challenges, and receive constructive feedback on your work. The diverse range of perspectives and expertise within these groups can inspire creativity and push your boundaries as a photographer. It's a supportive community where you can seek advice, share your struggles, and celebrate your successes. Ultimately, being a part of Facebook photography groups enables you to grow as a photographer and foster relationships that can positively impact your career.

My Top 20 Photog Facebook Groups

And if you are a photographer... You must join join!

Every single day, there are new photographers popping up. I admire them. They're bright-eyed and bushy tailed and eager to learn (or should be). They are excited and have a ton of passion. If one is already naturally creative, they can apply that to their new role and journey.It's crazy because I don't look down on these new togs. I know that if they are going to make it, they're going to have to dedicate so much time building their business and developing their craft. It is HARD and it's HARD to get on your feet initially.

HARD to get your name out there and book appointments. Plus, you want to learn and soak up EVERYTHING you can get your hands on!!! Trust me, I get it. I do great with folks in South Jersey. I book a lot of sessions and some I have to refer out and qualify to see if I'll be the best fit for the customers. If I didn't refer these folks out and qualify them, I'd have too much of a workload on my plate and would be stressed to the gills.However, I am starting out in a sense by launching myself into new markets like Delaware and Philadelphia.

These markets I am now going after and trying to get my name out and am now laying the footwork to get in there like I've done here in South Jersey.I try and keep my life in balance, but unfortunately my workload sometimes gets the best of me. New tog, It's going to be tough, but you can do it! Your first year will have you on a roller coaster.Anyway, I tend to ramble a lot. However, I wanted to devise a good list for the newer photographer starting out of some great Facebook groups that I think will be truly beneficial to you as you stomp through the mud of your journey.So here it goes... My ultimate Facebook group resource!

HERE ARE THE TOP 20 FACEBOOK GROUPS YOU SHOULD JOIN!

1. The Law Tog

Created by a fellow photographer and lawyer, it's a wonderful resource for any legal questions you may have. She's also got this rocking contract she sells in her shop. I had it reviewed by a local lawyer and it passed with flying colors.Now sometimes some of the questions are train wrecks, but it definitely teaches you about the business behind the scenes.https://www.facebook.com/groups/lawtog/

2. Photography Props Group

If you're starting out, you're going to need props. A ton of them. Especially,  if you are going into newborn photography or studio work.. Personally, I am not a big fan of props, but that is why I choose not to do this type of photography!  If you are looking for a particular item (this is a fab group for newborn photographers), it's a great mix of vendors and photographers. Ask for what you are looking for and you shall receive!https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebestphotographypropsgroup/There's also a $25 and under group.https://www.facebook.com/groups/props25orless/

3. SEO for the Professional Photographer

If you are starting out, you're going to need a website and with that comes maintaining your site. Requiring you to learn all the fun about SEO aka search engine optimization and how to get your website to rank high and on the first page or 2nd with your target keywords.https://www.facebook.com/groups/photoSEO/

4. Photographer's Alliance

For basic questions, this is a great professional group of photographers. They cover a more wide range of subjects, but I've never seen drama in this group like I have seen in others, so that's a huge plus.https://www.facebook.com/groups/thephotographersalliance/

5. The Modern Tog

A neat Facebook group of almost 25,000 photographers where you can ask business or general marketing advice.https://www.facebook.com/groups/443890265645600/

6. Photography Tutorials

You're going to need to learn about new techniques and programs like Lightroom, ACR and Photoshop.https://www.facebook.com/groups/photographyturtorialsandlessons/ I'll actually post a blog in the future of some great photography editing sites and places to learn how to edit, but for now it's Facebook groups:)

7. WHICH Group

This is a group where you can ask unbiased questions on the workshop you've been eyeing to see if it's worth going or not. Also, on any editing webinars, etc.https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhichPhotographyTraining/

8.  Pretty Dresses for RESALE 

Meg Bitton has a dress group. Where she sells dresses in batches every so often of the high end gowns she photographs.https://www.facebook.com/groups/758524920889156/

9. Marketing For Photographers

I don't think so need to explain that much... But you guessed it... Marketing questions and tips for all you lovely photographers.https://www.facebook.com/groups/SEOandMarketingforPhotogs/

10. Leah Maria Couture

American made dresses/gowns/props for us budding photographershttps://www.facebook.com/groups/leahmariacouture/

11. Photographer's Playgroup

This one can be a lot of fun as an image is posted and other photographers will edit it. It's always interesting to see what folks can come up with on the same image.https://www.facebook.com/groups/290006404345013/

12. Photographer's Support

Great place to whine and get some support on certain business related matters.https://www.facebook.com/groups/92010142808498813. Other cool dress groups for Dollcake, Tutu Du Monde, Joyfolie, etc.https://www.facebook.com/groups/219607941559563/https://www.facebook.com/groups/1477732232459191/

14. Photographer Resources

This is one of my favorites. There's a ton of freebies in here and great learning resources!https://www.facebook.com/groups/407934876014273/

15. Learning OCF aka Off camera flash

Excellent Facebook group if you are wishing to learn off camera flash. A lot of great and free resources in here.https://www.facebook.com/groups/speedlightfundamentals/

16. Photoshop and Lightroom Group

With over 100,000 members prepare to swoon over some work in here!https://www.facebook.com/groups/pshopandlightroom/

17. Pure Newborn, Maternity and Beyond

Great group. One of 3 group I'm regularly in. This was started by Alicia D'Amico. You'll learn a lot in here!https://www.facebook.com/groups/PureEmotionsPhotogs/

18. Newborn Photography 101

The funny thing is, it isn't all about newborns. It's everything! It use to be my favorite group and is still in the top 3!https://www.facebook.com/groups/1560656694148621/

19. Meg Bitton's Group

The talent in here alone, will either make you swoon or want to go cry in a closet because you will think you really really suck and may never want to pick up a camera againhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/mwofmatnbchildphotography/

20. The South Jersey Speakeasy Group

https://www.facebook.com/groups/SJSpeakeasy/Last, but not least. If there are any local photographers in the South Jersey, Delaware or Philadelphia areas, this is a great group and resource for you!I hope you enjoy this list! I am apart of so many groups, but these are the ones I'm most privy too and believe have helped me along in this wonderful journey of photography!Maybe I'll see you around in these favorite groups of mine?  Or in Delaware my new territory... or the Mainline in Philadelphia!!!Woo hoo!!!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

A Day With Meg Bitton- Behind the Scenes Workshop

Meg Bitton, with her extensive experience and unique artistic vision held a workshop in the winter to elevate her students and their journey into this business. It is a tough business to navigate. However, if looking to expand on knowledge or just getting into the photography business, I do recommend having a portrait session with her.

I am providing some of the inspiration from Meg Bitton’s in-person workshop.

Styling is very important to set the mood for your images.

This was Meg’s sweater used to make beautiful images. Meaning you just need great light and a great subject! Notice the backlighting.

Sweet angel.

Capturing the light.

Every photographer has a dream photographer that they look up to and want to meet one day. Usually, this person is one with years of experience and has taken the world by storm.  One with a reputation to teach and make their students better than they were before. That one photographer for me was Meg Bitton.  Ever since I got into photography and her work mesmerized me through the screen, I instantly fell in love with her soft and elegant style. It truly spoke to me.  I looked at her work and said... I MUST learn from her one day.Last year, was tremendous growing pains for me. I worked hard to where I am today. I took class after class and my work keeps improving with every session that I complete.

 I saw Meg had a simple and affordable Winter's Light workshop and I jumped at the chance to finally learn from her!Funny enough the day of her workshop, my SUV was having issues and warning lights came on. I was not going to miss this class so I called my mom, who thankfully resides in the next town over, and explained to her what happened and she graciously let me borrow her vehicle for the day.I took the semi-short journey of about 2 hour and 2o minute drive up to her North Jersey location and arrived early. I did not want to miss a minute.

As I saw other photographers pull up, I saw that they too were nervous to meet one of their photography idols, as I was. Within the first few minutes I felt at ease, although I could cut the room with a knife because I could sense the nervousness oozing out from each and everyone of us and what in the hay we were going to expect as this day moved forward.

 A lot of folks have put Meg on a pedestal, but Meg showed us she is human and one of the girls, like all of us. She wore her sunglasses and just kicked back on her plush sectional in her cozy workshop. We each got to discuss why we were there.  Meg has been a photographer all her life.  I respect that about her. She's gone through the ups and downs of this business and now presently dealing with the new digital age. She has perfected her craft. However, she never stops learning. We all should never stop learning.When we were finished with our talk, we ventured out to the nearby woods and this is when I fell in love with Anna Triant's dresses and Meg herself.  

The way she takes over with just her camera and her subject. Right then and there, I was inspired. Right then and there, things clicked for me. Right then and there... I thought to myself.... this is what I needed to see. She helped show folks how to find good light and was very interactive throughout the entire aspect of shooting. I got to speak with the moms of the models as Meg uses them often in her work. I saw the pride they had for their daughters and with having another day with Meg. I complimented how well these girls were at what they do and told them how happy they must be.

Everyone I spoke to was down to earth and so open. Even the girls I went to the workshop with. In fact, I've become friends with one of the girls from the workshop and we've gotten together since!We headed back to her studio and this is where we could ask any questions about the day and we sat in awe as she uploaded her pictures and showed us how she would edit them.  

After, we sat around and discussed business matters and finalized our day of questions so we could return home.When I left that day, I had a high. I sang and blasted the radio up in the car for my semi-long journey home and couldn't wait until I could put into use what Meg taught me. Meg taught me these things... To be me, that my style is good!!! And to keep going with it!To stylize my sessions and that clothing/wardrobe plays a vital role in photography.

The way you are dressed, can MAKE or BREAK your photographs because of this, this is why the change this year of my business in stylizing for girls and will be stylizing for boys, men and women going forward. I was already stylizing my maternity sessions.To find light-  Honestly, I was good at finding it before and with the locations I utilize, but Meg really makes you pay attention to it...  She showed us the way... and how to get the BEST out of our images!The next day after the workshop, I had a session.  From that session, I published TWO photographs. I owe that to Meg as I've tried for the last year to get published with Inspire and could never get published. From then and there, business has taken off and more images have been published.She made me realize that I deserve the best, I deserve to respect myself and do what I love to do and to not take every client on that waves money at me..

To only take on what I want to take on and it's okay to go with only your vision and your gut and to follow your passion. To be honest, by the time of Meg's workshop. I was burned out from the fall. I worked non-stop from August to November with only 2 days off. I had sessions every day except those two days. I was exhausted and was starting to hate photography.  She sparked that again in me.

This year, has been many changes, but for the good. I value myself and I have worked hard to get to the skill level that I've always wanted to be at. I'm always learning. Every single day, I learn something new and that will never stop. However, I have grown by leaps and bounds in one year's time in which it takes other photographers 5 or more years to achieve.I guess this is my public thank you to Meg herself for letting me find myself. I don't want to be Meg, I do have my own style, but I am inspired by her and her work. I look forward to learning from more greats this year.

 I just finished a webinar with Katie Andelman, a weekend workshop with SallyKate and Lemmonmade Photography is coming up this April, a workshop with the great Elena Shimilova this September and again, I will get to see Meg Bitton with Sandra Bianco this year.  I loved what Meg has taught me and I feel forever blessed.  I signed up for a monthly editing webinar for a year with her, after the workshop to keep myself fresh from all that I have been taught by her! I have a feeling this is going to be one helluva year in growth and learning. And also a great year for my business.

Happy Shooting, my friends!!! 

Best,Dee 

P.S.  If you have any doubt in doing a Meg Bitton workshop... just do it. Hopefully, it will spark something within yourself too!  I now look at everything differently, from my subjects, to giving better direction and how to get the very best out of them with the locations I use!!Thank you, Meg!!! See you in September!!!         

Why do people like working with Shooting Star Photography?

Top 11 Reasons to Work with Shooting Star Photography LLC

We are passionate in what we provide and give to each of our customers! Creating unique portrait sessions aren’t just a thing for us, it is so much more! See below on why people work with us!

1. I make friends very easily

I have a lot of friends.... and not the superficial kind where folks have a ton of friends, but don't know what their true goals and dreams are.  The kind that would give their shirts off their backs and I do the same! I am BLESSED beyond belief!  I also have many local and non-local photographer friends all throughout the country! It's great to know you have good people in your corner!

2.  I'm creative

I am OBSESSED with photography and learning new things and techniques. I am always taking a class at any given time. I am also doing workshops with some of the greats this year!  A Katie Andelman webinar, a two day workshop with Elena Shimilova, another workshop with Meg Bitton and Sandra Bianco.  I also have a Jinky Art membership to keep my editing skills fresh and Meg Bitton's monthly editing classes.  Yup, as I mentioned OBSESSED.  I'm also styling photo sessions this year.  I want the BEST for my customers. I truly feel that wardrobe can make or break a photo!

3. I answer emails immediately

I'm a little obsessive compulsive and I don't like that my customers wait, or if I have a client inquiring about a session. I want to answer any questions and be available. That's always been my motto!

20150806-DSC01582-Edit

4. I make it personal for my customers

Every session that I do, is truly unique. NO session has been alike. My job is to capture memories and moments. Happiness and laughter are a big plus and  my customers truly feel special by the time they are done with their shoot and their entire experience!!! Look at my Facebook page with the reviews folks have left me. I NEVER asked them to do a review. They wanted to review because they truly enjoyed their experience!

5. Customers say I'm talented in photography

Hahaha! This one makes me laugh and happy!!! However, I would never say that I'm talented. I would say that I am a student learning and always will be a student to photography.  However,  my goal is to be like nothing in the Philadelphia area.  I do believe my photography is definitely unique and that I have a truly defined style..

6. I make my customers laugh

By the time we are done our photo session, we seriously become friends!!!   I love making my clients feel at ease and I think my love and passion for what I do, truly shines!!  I am a bit cheesy with a dash of sarcastic... I definitely have that Jersey humor down!

7. I'm great with working with kids and giving them direction

I really do love working with children. I have two myself a four year old and a one year old. I love capturing each child's unique personalities and creating art from it! 

8. I make them feel special during their session and I turn it into a fun experience when often times, it can be very nerve wracking for folks.

 100% of the time when I am waiting on location to meet up for a session, I can point the client out with tremendous accuracy.. even in a crowd.  Folks are nervous, they are dressed well  and really wanting things to go smoothly.  You can sense the nervousness. I call it stage freight.  However, I promise by the end of your session, you don't even know I'm there and I'm just another member of the family!

9. I go into a session with a plan, concept  and purpose.

While most photographers will "wing it." I go in with a full plan. From utilizing a location that I know will give the best light at that particular timeframe (and in photography, light is the most important thing). To wardrobe concepts and posing. I always have a plan.  I tend to work quickly and know what I want to get out of the session for my clients. I am a planner.

10.  I really love working with people

Hahaha! Not everyone is peaches and roses, but the majority of 99.99% of my clients, I LOVE and adore working with them. I love being the one picked to capture THEIR treasured memories.  I really feel that it's a huge honor!!!

11.  Locations!!!

I am truly a nut when it comes to locations. I have published two books on places to seek out in South Jersey! I know of places that one can only dream and I am blessed to have been an explorer of my great state!!! New Jersey is beautiful... Most folks would disagree, but if I took you out for a few hours, you would see what I see!!! I have had agencies hire me to take them out to explore places! I hope that you enjoy my witty nature and I look forward to speaking with you soon!!! 

Happy Shooting, my friends! 

Dee