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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A South Jersey Photographer's Tale of a Beautiful Maternity Session

A South Jersey Photographer's Tale of a Beautiful Maternity Session

A magical tale unfolded recently in South Jersey, where a radiant mom, her little girl adorned in an Anna Triant Dress, and an excited dad-to-be set out into the forest for a unique maternity session. Each element of the session — from the locale to the relationships — came together to create some truly beautiful moments.

Did you know?

Studies show that pregnant women who have maternity photos taken feel more positive about their changing bodies and have higher levels of self-esteem. This is because maternity photography celebrates the beauty and power of pregnancy.

A magical tale unfolded recently in South Jersey, where a radiant mom, her little girl adorned in an Anna Triant Dress, and an excited dad-to-be set out into the forest for a unique maternity session. Each element of the session — from the locale to the relationships — came together to create some truly beautiful moments.

Did you know?

Studies show that pregnant women who have maternity photos taken feel more positive about their changing bodies and have higher levels of self-esteem. This is because maternity photography celebrates the beauty and power of pregnancy.

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The Magical South Jersey Location

Nestled amidst the enchanting forests of South Jersey was our chosen location, a place that exudes a tranquil charm. This majestic natural setting, where the sun gently streams through the thick foliage, casting a lively dance of shadows on the forest floor, contributed a touch of mysticism to our session. The rustling leaves overhead and the melodic chirping of unseen birds orchestrated a tranquil symphony that accompanied us throughout the day, harmonizing beautifully with the expectant mother's radiant glow. The forest, with its innate peace and seclusion, served as a picturesque backdrop that resonated exquisitely with the exhilarating anticipation of welcoming a new family member. The atmosphere was serene yet brimming with life, an echo of the beautiful journey of motherhood. The essence of the forest, the quiet murmur of the wind, the slight flutter of leaves - all of these elements lent an air of enchantment to the session, making it a truly magical experience.

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The Beautiful Anna Triant Dress

Our little princess for the day, adorned in an Anna Triant masterpiece, was truly a sight to behold. This whimsical dress, alive with flowing layers, seemed to echo the spirit of our delightful subject, adding a dash of enchantment to every frame. The dress was much more than just a garment; it was an accessory that amplified the innocence and vivacious energy of the little girl. Its subtle frills, gentle pastel hues, and twinkling sequins were like a brushstroke added to a painting, enhancing its appeal and adding depth. Each movement made by the little girl created a stunning visual, as the dress fluttered and danced, mirroring her youthful exuberance and playful demeanor. This Anna Triant creation, with its intricate details, not only transformed our maternity session into a whimsical fairytale but also accentuated the delight of a little girl eagerly awaiting the arrival of her sibling. The dress served as a reminder of the wonders of childhood, the magic of anticipation, and the beauty of family, all captured in a single, breathtaking frame.

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The Bond Between Mom and Daughter

The connection between a mother and her daughter is a unique and special bond, and capturing this in our session was an absolute honor. From shared giggles to quiet whispers of tales about the soon-to-be baby, every interaction held a special warmth and charm. The simple act of their hands coming together to rest on the mom's blossoming belly, conveying an unspoken promise of love and protection, created heartwarming images that beautifully spoke of their bond. Every look, touch, and word exchanged between them was a display of their deep relationship, radiating love and mutual admiration. This bond, painted against the canvas of the forest and the backdrop of the Anna Triant dress, added an extra touch of magic to our session. The essence of this bond, captured in frames, encapsulated a timeless love story between a mother and her daughter, eagerly waiting for their family to grow.

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Capturing Dad's Excitement and Anticipation

The thrill of anticipation that shimmered in the father-to-be's eyes was a sight to behold. His every action and gesture, whether playfully hoisting his daughter aloft or sharing a tender moment with his expectant wife, resounded with excitement for the impending arrival of his newest family member. His fervent joy, so palpable and genuine, added a layer of warmth and joy to our already magical maternity session. His loving and protective instincts towards his wife and daughter were evident in the affectionate interactions that took place in the heart of the forest. These moments created some touching snapshots that will forever serve as precious family keepsakes. The sparkle in his eyes, a testament to his joy and eagerness, was a story unto itself - a story of a man eagerly waiting to embrace fatherhood once more.

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The Essence of Maternity Photography

Maternity photography holds a profound place in the realm of portrait photography. It goes beyond just freezing the physical changes during pregnancy, by delving deeper into the emotions, dreams, and relationships that blossom during this remarkable journey. Each click of the camera captures more than a pregnant mom, it captures a love story about to unfold, a family growing, a bond strengthening. It's about those shared smiles, tender touches, and the palpable anticipation that fills the air as families prepare to welcome their newest members. As seen in our South Jersey session, maternity photography can transform a lush forest and a playful Anna Triant Dress into an enchanting narrative about the beauty of motherhood, the joy of a little girl on the verge of sisterhood, and the sheer excitement of a dad-to-be. The essence of maternity photography is to narrate this enchanting story, to capture these priceless moments and weave them into a visual tale that families can cherish forever. Each maternity session is an opportunity to celebrate life, to celebrate family, and to celebrate the magic that motherhood brings - a magic that is both universal and intensely personal. Every image captured during a session has a story to tell, a memory to share, an emotion to relive. This, in essence, is what maternity photography is all about.

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Conclusion - A Tale of a Beautiful Maternity Session

This spellbinding South Jersey maternity session was more than a simple gathering for pictures – it was a narrative spun with anticipation, love, and the extraordinary spell of impending motherhood. We had the perfect ingredients for a memorable day - a serene forest setting, an exquisite Anna Triant Dress, and a joyful family waiting to welcome their newest member. This wasn't just another day, it was a milestone. The laughter echoed, the bonds deepened, and the thrill of the imminent arrival heightened within the forest's embrace. The memories crafted during this session will be etched forever in their hearts, immortalized through the photographs captured. Each image will serve as a reminder of this magical day, a window into the past to relive these joyous moments. The journey to welcome a new life was beautifully embodied in this unique maternity session. And thus, we conclude the enchanting tale of a day brimming with love, expectation, and the unique magic that only the expectancy of a new life can bring.

Check out our maternity portfolio!

We would love to create some maternity magic for you and your family!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

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Fashion Forward Preteens | Teens Shine in Philadelphia Photo Shoot

Fashion forward in Philly. Capturing Teens and Preteens are our speciality. We know at this age, it is important that they have fun without being dragged out to a photo shoot because that's what mom wants! Haha!

Capturing Teens and Preteens are our speciality. We know at this age, it is important that they have fun without being dragged out to a photo shoot because that's what mom wants! Haha! All of the teens we see, always ask to come back again after their shoot!

As a teen or preteen, the world of fashion is constantly evolving, and it's never too early to start exploring your personal style. Two preteens recently had the opportunity to do just that in a photo shoot on Broad Street in Philadelphia. With a backdrop of the city's architecture and culture, these young fashionistas showed off their unique looks and personalities. Let's take a closer look at this fashion-forward photo shoot.

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Setting the Stage – Broad Street, Philadelphia

Broad Street in Philadelphia is not just any ordinary street. It's the kind of place where you can feel the pulse of the city, and it's the perfect location for a fashion shoot that's all about showcasing personal style. With iconic landmarks like City Hall and the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts in the background, the photos from this shoot are sure to capture the essence of the city. The architecture of the buildings provides a stunning contrast to the two young models and their outfits.

But it's not just the buildings that make Broad Street special. It's the energy of the city that really brings the shoot to life. There's something about the buzz of the people and the constant movement that makes this location the perfect setting for a fashion-forward shoot. Whether it's the way the wind blows through the girl's blue dress or the way the boy's black pants catch the sunlight just right, there's an energy in these photos that's hard to ignore.

In a world where personal style is so important, it's refreshing to see two preteens exploring their own fashion choices and making them their own. The photos from this shoot are a testament to the idea that fashion doesn't have to be exclusive or intimidating. Instead, it can be a way to express yourself and embrace your unique style. And what better place to do it than on the streets of Philadelphia?


What age range qualifies as preteens and why are they being targeted in this shoot?

Simply put, the term preteens generally refers to children between the ages of 9 to 12. The reason they're being targeted in this Philadelphia photo shoot is to capture the vibrant energy and unique personalities of this age group in a fun and exciting city environment. Plus, this is what mom wanted!

What landmarks or unique spots in Philadelphia were used as backgrounds for the shoot?

Mom wanted a vibrant and exciting Philadelphia photo shoot that aimed to capture the youthful spirit of her preteens. This included notable city landmarks and spots used as backdrop to add unique character to the images. For example, City Hall in the Background and the Kimmel Center. I also like using the Merriam Theater and side streets.

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The Girl in Blue – A Pop of Color in the City

The girl in the blue dress brought a burst of color to the city streets during this photo shoot. I really love blue as city shadows seem to show off blue so pastel colors and jewel tones always are gorgeous here! Her outfit was a statement piece, with a vibrant blue hue that made her stand out against the neutral background. The dress added an element of fun and playfulness to the photos, and the strappy sandals and simple jewelry complemented the look perfectly. But it wasn't just her outfit that made her shine; her confidence and self-assuredness added to the overall effect.

Her perfectly styled hair added to the youthful, carefree vibe of the shoot, and her smile was infectious. It was clear that she was comfortable in her own skin and in the outfit she was wearing. It's not always easy to be bold and make a statement with fashion, especially at a young age, but this girl showed that it can be done with ease.

In a world where fitting in can be the norm, it was refreshing to see someone embrace their individuality and showcase their unique style. This young fashionista proved that personal style doesn't have to be boring or bland; it can be fun, colorful, and full of life. And what better place to do it than on the bustling streets of Philadelphia?

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The Boy in a Dress Shirt and Black Pants – A Touch of Sophistication

While the girl in blue brought a pop of color to the shoot, the boy in the dress shirt and black pants exuded a sense of sophistication that was beyond his years. His outfit was simple but refined, with a crisp white dress shirt that contrasted perfectly with his black pants. The black leather shoes completed the look, making him look sharp and put-together. But it wasn't just his outfit that made him stand out; it was the confidence and poise that he exuded.

The way he carried himself in front of the camera was impressive, and it was clear that he was comfortable in his own skin. His sleek side-parted hair added to his classic, timeless look, and his expression was calm and collected. It was inspiring to see a young person embrace a more sophisticated look, especially in a world where casual styles are often the norm.

This young fashion-forward preteen showed that fashion doesn't have to be restricted to a particular age group or gender. His outfit was both stylish and age-appropriate, and it showed that personal style is all about experimentation and exploration. It's refreshing to see a young person embrace a more sophisticated look and make it their own, and it's a reminder that fashion can be an avenue for self-expression at any age. In a world where casual styles are often the norm, it was exciting to see a young person break the mold and set a new standard for preteen fashion.

The Dance of Light and Shadow - Photography Elements

The magic of photography lies in the way it captures light and shadow. In this fashion-forward preteen photo shoot, the photographers used the architecture of the city to create stunning contrasts of light and shadow. The play of light on the girl's blue dress and the boy's black pants is captivating, and the photographers' skillful use of bokeh adds an extra layer of interest to the photos. The way the sunlight casts shadows on the girl's face in some photos adds an element of mystery and intrigue.

But it's not just the use of light and shadow that makes these photos stand out. The photographers also played with angles and perspectives to create dynamic images that showcase the cityscape and the models. The photos taken from above show the models in the context of the city, while the close-up shots highlight their individual styles and personalities. The resulting images are not only beautiful, but also tell a story about these young fashionistas and the city they inhabit.

The photographers' mastery of light and shadow is a testament to their skills and artistry, and it adds an extra layer of depth to the photos. The interplay of light and shadow is something that can be appreciated by anyone, regardless of their interest in fashion. These photos are not just a documentation of a fashion shoot; they're also a celebration of the beauty of the city and the art of photography.

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Behind the Scenes – The Making of a Fashion Shoot

While the photos from the shoot look effortless and natural, a lot of hard work went into creating those stunning shots. The making of a fashion shoot is no easy feat, and this one was no exception. The team behind the scenes worked tirelessly to make sure everything ran smoothly. From wardrobe changes to hair and makeup touch-ups, every detail was attended to.

The photographers, in particular, played a crucial role in bringing this shoot to life. They worked closely with the models to make sure they felt comfortable and confident, and they experimented with different angles and lighting to get the perfect shot. The makeup artist and hairstylist were equally important, ensuring that the models looked their best in every photo.

But it wasn't just the technical aspects of the shoot that made it successful. The team had a great energy and worked together seamlessly to create a fun and exciting atmosphere. Everyone was invested in making sure the shoot was a success, and their passion and dedication are evident in the final product.

The behind-the-scenes look at the making of this fashion shoot is a reminder of the hard work and dedication that goes into creating something beautiful. It takes a village to make a shoot like this happen, and every person involved played a crucial role in bringing the vision to life. The result is a series of stunning photos that showcase the beauty of the city and the individual styles of these two preteens.

A Step towards Preteen Fashion Revolution

The world of fashion can often be intimidating, especially for preteens who are just starting to explore their personal style. But this photo shoot on Broad Street in Philadelphia is a step towards changing that. These two young models showed that fashion can be fun, exciting, and accessible for everyone.

By embracing their individual styles and showcasing them in a public setting, they set an example for other preteens who may be struggling to find their own unique style. Fashion should be about expressing yourself and feeling confident in your own skin, and these two young fashionistas demonstrated just that.

It's exciting to see a preteen fashion revolution taking place, where individuality is celebrated and personal style is embraced. It's a reminder that fashion doesn't have to be exclusive or intimidating; it can be a way to have fun and express yourself.

By breaking the mold and embracing their own unique styles, these two preteens are setting a new standard for fashion-forward young people. They're showing that fashion isn't just for adults or industry insiders; it's for anyone who wants to explore their creativity and make a statement with their style.

This photo shoot is just the beginning of a fashion revolution that celebrates diversity and individuality. It's a reminder that fashion can be a form of self-expression and a way to celebrate your unique personality. We can't wait to see what other preteens will bring to the table in the future and how they will continue to push the boundaries of what's possible in the world of fashion.

If you would like your teen or preteen photographed, lets schedule a session!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

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New Scheduling Feature for Shooting Star

New Scheduling Feature for Shooting Star Photography

Introducing Our New Scheduling Feature

We are excited to announce the launch of our new scheduling feature at Shooting Star Photography! Now, booking a photography session with us is easier than ever.

With our intuitive scheduling system, you can browse available time slots, select a date and time that works best for you, and book your session in just a few clicks. No more back-and-forth emails or phone calls to find a convenient time – everything you need is right at your fingertips.

Whether you're looking to capture precious family moments, professional headshots, stunning portraits, or any other special occasion, our new scheduling feature streamlines the process, giving you more control and flexibility in securing your photography session.

Introducing Our New Scheduling Feature

We are excited to announce the launch of our new scheduling feature at Shooting Star Photography! Now, booking a photography session with us is easier than ever.


With our intuitive scheduling system, you can browse available time slots, select a date and time that works best for you, and book your session in just a few clicks. No more back-and-forth emails or phone calls to find a convenient time – everything you need is right at your fingertips.
Whether you're looking to capture precious family moments, professional headshots, stunning portraits, or any other special occasion, our new scheduling feature streamlines the process, giving you more control and flexibility in securing your photography session.


To take advantage of this convenient new feature, simply visit our website and navigate to the scheduling page. From there, you can choose your desired session type, view available dates and times, and lock in your appointment with ease.


We're committed to making your photography experience with us as seamless and enjoyable as possible, and our new scheduling feature is just one way we're delivering on that promise.
Try out our new scheduling feature today and take the first step towards capturing your timeless moments with Shooting Star Photography.

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I love the urban vibe of this image and this cute little boy in Bushwick NY.

We all know that going back and forth with your photographer in the Philadelphia, New Jersey and Delaware region, with certain dates to hold your session can be quite daunting. All the back and forth with emails takes up your valuable time and even the photographer's (for this time of year... DEFINITELY!)  I wanted to streamline my service offerings and I did try out a scheduling feature in the past.. and had a bad experience with it. It was still very daunting and old school and it even messed up some scheduling with clients.. which is no bueno. Of course, I did reach out and resolved the issue as any business person would do! I tested out Big Cartel recently and so far am very happy with the results. I am able to make easy changes and it's a simple process for my clients.. so it's a win win in my book.. The simple the better for everyone! This service will allow customers to book and reserve their sessions and to see what dates are available. Big game changer for everyone involved.

 After retainer is paid, I follow up with client to schedule their time, discuss locations and wardrobe for their session. If you haven't heard I provide gowns, dresses, some suits for boys etc etc.  It's a fun little option for my clients.These are the only dates available for next year as I told folks I was doing about 40 of them for 2017 and that's it! Enjoy, the simplicity my friends! I'm in love with this new feature! Here's a link to check it out!

Happy Shooting my friends and have a great day! Best, Dee New Scheduling Program

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