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.

New Jersey Winter Wonderland Sessions

New Jersey Winter Wonderland Sessions- Capturing the best subjects, with the best light!

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This time of year is THE BEST to have a session!!!!! Winter light is extremely soft and pleasing. It makes your skin look soft and beautiful. My subjects look more magical, due to the pastel light. I know it may be a little cold outside, but if you can withstand it, this is honestly the best time to have a session. When you approach the spring and summer months, lighting becomes a bit more harsh, especially in the spring. Spring light can be a bit more difficult to work with as there are no leaves on the trees, so it's hard to filter the light. You sometimes end up with a more harsh light, depending on the location. For winter sessions, we have you covered. From furs, capes, winter dresses... we have it all! The locations we choose in winter are a bit different from our offerings in the spring and summer, due to better lighting conditions this time of year.  

Why is a winter photography session the best?

Winter light casts a magical spell on portraits, making them truly enchanting! As the sun hangs low in the sky, its gentle rays filter through the crisp winter air, creating a soft and ethereal glow. The quality of this light during winter is like no other—it's delicate, diffused, and creates a beautiful luminosity on the subjects. Photographing portraits in winter light feels like painting with light brushes, adding a touch of warmth and a hint of romance to every image. The low angle of the sun offers long shadows, adding depth and dimension to the portraits, accentuating the contours of the face and creating a captivating interplay between light and shadow. So, grab your camera, bundle up in cozy layers, and let the winter light work its magic on your portraits!

How are process works: We take care of EVERYTHING. Honestly, all you need to do is show up. I have an assistant (my mom) and we get you dressed, get your headpieces going. Then off to shooting in this beautiful winter light. You tend to find us traveling all over the Delaware Valley Region. From waterfalls, to the pine tree forests.. to city this time of year.We tend to be a stylized emotive storytelling photographer. We kind of sit back and help direct you, but we want you to have real moments between one another. Especially, with families, as that is our goal.

We capture REAL smiles, not the, "say cheese" kind. Every location we choose, we style around it. For example, I am sure you don't want to wear something extremely formal on the beach or black.. it won't look right. You want to go for those pastels, lights, brights.. and jewel tones. Black is more suited for city, or forest conditions.  NOW is the time to book your winter session as our spring through fall is booked out. We would love to work with you and give you an amazing photography experience!!! 

Happy Shooting, my friends! Dee

Shooting Star Photography

Southern New Jersey Photographer      

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BEFORE AND AFTER EDITING PROCESS - Southern New Jersey Photographer

Before and After Editing Process- behind the scenes.

As a photographer, it is crucial to show before and after edits of our work for several reasons. Firstly, it allows us to demonstrate our skills and expertise in post-processing techniques. By showcasing the original image alongside its edited version, we can highlight the artistic decisions made and the enhancements achieved. This helps potential clients understand the level of creativity and attention to detail we bring to our photography. Additionally, displaying before and after edits helps in managing expectations. Clients can get a realistic understanding of how editing can elevate and transform an image, ensuring they are satisfied with the final result. Ultimately, sharing before and after edits not only showcases our abilities but also builds trust and transparency with our audience.

Before and After Edit

At Shooting Star Photography LLC, witness the transformative power of editing in our before and after images. Our skilled editors enhance the raw beauty captured in each photograph, bringing out the best in every shot. See how subtle adjustments can make a world of difference, elevating ordinary snapshots into extraordinary works of art. Trust us to perfect your precious memories and turn them into timeless masterpieces.

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Before and After Editing Process- behind the scenes.

As a photographer, it is crucial to show before and after edits of our work for several reasons. Firstly, it allows us to demonstrate our skills and expertise in post-processing techniques. By showcasing the original image alongside its edited version, we can highlight the artistic decisions made and the enhancements achieved. This helps potential clients understand the level of creativity and attention to detail we bring to our photography. Additionally, displaying before and after edits helps in managing expectations. Clients can get a realistic understanding of how editing can elevate and transform an image, ensuring they are satisfied with the final result. Ultimately, sharing before and after edits not only showcases our abilities but also builds trust and transparency with our audience.

Every year, we generally use my friend's peony field in Gloucester County, NJ. Most folks ask... what is a peony?  A peony flower resembles huge rose flowers... They bloom for maybe two weeks tops and they are extremely fragrant. Peak time is generally at height around Memorial Day weekend. There's a few farms in the area. Our Outer Coastal plan in New Jersey allows great growing conditions of plants and vegetables and is why it is called the Garden State. However, this past year with the weird warmup we had in the winter.. Bloom times were heavily affected. We had to cancel our annual peony farm sessions this year.

A lot of bloom times were affected. Peach crops were apparently going to also be affected another year in a row. It was a strange spring. I hope that 2018's spring will be much different.I wanted to show a little bit of what we do behind the scenes on the editing process. We don't just take a photo and hand it over to you. We lovingly go over every single image to make it truly shine. This is why we take the time we do, to have them back to you. I am at home working most nights until 3 am to 4 am in the morning. 

Our schedule is very busy and this part time business, has turned into almost a 24/7 operation.I have trained under some of the best of the industry to give my clients the very best. I believe in education and that is key at all times to continue to grow, learn and provide the best for customers. I am constantly learning new things. In regards to the peony sessions, I rarely show my before and afters... but wanted to show you what things look out of camera and what your final product may be. Some of our specialty sessions, like our unicorn sessions.. tend to be even more work. I don't believe in changing children's faces or features. I have seen this done many times in our industry. Everything, tends to get "cooked to death" as I like to say or completely Photoshopped to death.

My goal is just enhancement. EVERYTHING is edited by hand. Peony field. Southern New Jersey. Before and after editing process.Top left is out of camera. It was actually overcast and raining during this session. Full image is the final edited product in which my clients received. I would say not my BEST WORK. However, it still goes to show the in depth process of what we do.I want my clients to look back on their photos (years from now) and see art and beauty, but see their children and themselves as they truly are. I don't like to lose skin texture or affect features.

This is why we take the time we do to make sure each and every photograph that you choose in the editing process.. looks like a superstar, but not overly processed.  We also stylized this shoot. The color white and vintage ALWAYS looks beautiful virtually anywhere. It reflects timelessness. Most likely, you won't look back at this image in 5 years and say it is out of style or clothing choices.. what was I thinking? This image was taken two years ago and still just as beautiful today! 

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

NJ Portrait Photographer

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Addison Street-My Exquisite City Shoot on the streets of Philadelphia

Addison Street-My Exquisite City Shoot on the streets of Philadelphia

Addison Street: A Hidden Gem for Photo Shoots

When it comes to searching for the perfect location for a photo shoot, Philadelphia offers a wealth of options. From historical landmarks to stunning parks, the city has it all. However, one street stands out among the rest as a hidden gem for capturing unique and captivating images: Addison Street.

Addison Street: A Hidden Gem for Photo Shoots

When it comes to searching for the perfect location for a photo shoot, Philadelphia offers a wealth of options. From historical landmarks to stunning parks, the city has it all. However, one street stands out among the rest as a hidden gem for capturing unique and captivating images: Addison Street.


Located in the heart of Philadelphia, Addison Street exudes a charm that is hard to find elsewhere. This quaint cobblestone street is lined with beautifully preserved row houses, each boasting its own distinctive architectural style. The historic architecture of these buildings provides an enchanting backdrop that effortlessly transports photographers and their subjects into a different era.


The street's narrowness adds a sense of intimacy to any photo shoot. As the sun filters through the spaces between the buildings, it creates a play of light and shadow, resulting in a magical and ethereal atmosphere. The interplay of these elements adds depth and dimension to photographs, enhancing their overall composition. Which is why we hosted a shoot out here!

Shooting Star Photography LLC Hosts a Glamorous Shootout on Addison Street, Philadelphia



Shooting Star Photography LLC, renowned for capturing the beauty and essence of its subjects, recently organized an extravagant shootout event on the vibrant streets of Philadelphia. Held on the bustling Addison Street, this photoshoot extravaganza showcased a delightful array of young girls having the time of their lives, adorned in stunning designer dresses. The event brought together a talented group of photographers, each ready to capture the essence of the moment in their own unique styles.


On this splendid day, as the winter sunlight gently bathed the historic streets of Philadelphia in a warm glow, Shooting Star Photography LLC organically transformed Addison Street into a haven of fun, excitement, and glamorous elegance. Photographers from all corners of the city were invited to capture magical moments as the young models radiated joyfulness and spontaneity.


This unique photoshoot was inspired by a desire to blend the world of fashion with the exuberant energy of Philadelphian streets. The team at Shooting Star Photography LLC curated a collection of exquisite designer dresses, tailored to perfectly complement the exquisiteness of each young girl. From flowing gowns to chic cocktail dresses, the outfits were carefully chosen to reflect the individual personalities of the models, enabling their true selves to shine through.


As the day unfolded, the jubilant atmosphere on Addison Street grew infectious. Laughter, smiles, and cheers filled the air as the models moved and interacted with one another, their vibrant dresses contrasting beautifully against the scenic backdrop of the city. Every twist and turn became a possibility for a remarkable shot, with each photographer skillfully capturing fleeting moments of celebration and elegance.


Shooting Star Photography LLC fostered an environment where creativity was encouraged and celebrated. The participating photographers brought their own distinct perspectives, utilizing a range of techniques to encapsulate the vivacity and charm of the event. Some photographers experimented with dynamic compositions, while others played with lighting or evoked emotions through black and white imagery. The result was an awe-inspiring collection of photographs that encapsulated the aura of each unique individual.


By hosting this shootout event, Shooting Star Photography LLC aimed to perpetuate the magic of fashion and photography. This event offered a platform for photographers to collaborate, exchange ideas, and learn from one another, igniting fresh artistic inspiration and strengthening the photography community in Philadelphia.


As the sun began to set, casting an ethereal glow upon the cobblestone alleys of Addison Street, Shooting Star Photography LLC's shootout drew to a close. In the laughter and shared memories of this extraordinary day, a tapestry of perfectly captured moments emerged, showcasing the beautiful fusion of fashion, art, and the bustling energy of Philadelphia.


For those who missed this remarkable event, do keep an eye out for future endeavors by Shooting Star Photography LLC. With their innate ability to weave elegance, spontaneity, and creativity into their work, there's no doubt that their next venture will be equally awe-inspiring.


One of the reasons Addison Street is truly a standout location for photo shoots is its distinctive aesthetic. The facades of the row houses are adorned with vibrant window boxes overflowing with colorful blooms, creating a picturesque scene straight out of a storybook. The visual appeal of these charming details provides endless creative opportunities for photographers to capture breathtaking images.


Another significant aspect of Addison Street's appeal lies in its peaceful ambiance. Removed from the hustle and bustle of the busier areas of Philadelphia, this quiet street offers a respite from the noise and distractions often encountered during photo sessions. The serene environment allows both the photographer and the subjects to fully immerse themselves in the creative process, resulting in more natural and authentic images.


Furthermore, Addison Street also benefits from its convenient location. Situated near several popular attractions, such as Rittenhouse Square and the Philadelphia Museum of Art, it provides the opportunity to incorporate diverse settings within a single photo shoot session. From green spaces to urban landscapes, the versatility of nearby locations adds variety and depth to the images captured on Addison Street.

In conclusion, Addison Street in Philadelphia is a hidden gem for photo shoots due to its unique blend of historic charm, stunning aesthetics, and peaceful ambiance. Its enchanting architecture, coupled with the narrow cobblestone lanes, creates an atmosphere that transcends time. For photographers seeking a location that offers creative opportunities, while maintaining a sense of tranquility, Addison Street is the perfect choice. Its conveniently located surroundings only enhance the overall appeal, making it a must-visit destination for any photography enthusiast.

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Twirling away in her Anna Triant dress on Addison Street in Philadelphia!

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my sister my best friend!

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Just having the time of her life!

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Four cuties freezing their hineys off in Philadelphia!

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Fierce is her name! Love it here on Addison Street!

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Little cutie.

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Kid knows how to bring it.

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Just having a blast? Need we say more?

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Happy giggles on Addison Street.

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This took some bribery to kiss her sister.

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I think this is my favorite from the day!

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Cute smile.. do you need anything else?

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Sweet little secrets!

There comes a time when you just want to let your creativity soar as a photographer.  You end up planning every single little detail... from the location, to the time, to the wardrobe... even down to WHO you wish to photograph.  All these come together and align into something magical. And magical it was!!!!This was a beautiful April day. There was virtually no traffic on the street. However, it did get a little bit chilly at night.  We had parents stand by with jackets and warm blankets. And the magic happened!!! I brought together some local photographers in the South Jersey area and we had a blast!!!  

It was my first time ever doing a model call and it went wonderfully!!!Here are some photographs from this shootout!!! We had a fabulous time! I couldn't be more happy with how these turned out in my first creative series!!!

Also, this is the PERFECT location for a photo shoot.  The street is situated direction East to West, which makes for that beautiful golden hour light you see in these photographs!!  

I LOVE PHILADELPHIA and that urban look!!!I am all about light as a photographer! I can't get enough of it!!!  When you work with me... I give you my BEST and thousands of dollars I have spent to perfect every photograph in workshops that I have attended... I only pick the BEST to work with in the industry as well!!!  With even 5 more workshops that I will be attending this year alone!!!

Thank you South Jersey!! For keeping me in business!!!  I've been very very busy and sold out for the year and I appreciate EVERYTHING and your support!!!Remember!! ALL of what you see here is available for your special session!!!You rock!!!  

Thanks again!! And Happy Shooting!!!

See you soon!

Dee

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