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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NJ Photographer | Tulip Photo Session at Dalton Farms

NJ Photographer/Tulip Photo Session at Dalton Farms

Unleash the Beauty of Tulips

At Shooting Star Photography LLC, we understand the allure and enchantment that tulips possess. These vibrant and elegant flowers have an undeniable charm that deserves to be captured flawlessly in photographs. If you are searching for an extraordinary photography experience that encapsulates the essence of tulips, look no further than us.

Dalton Farms: The Perfect Setting for Your Tulip Photo Shoot

NJ is the Garden State for a reason.  

To think this is in New Jersey is incredible as it rivals some of the fields you would see over in Holland! It’s the perfect place for a spring tulip photo shoot! As you see as we did here!

When it comes to capturing the beauty and vibrant colors of tulips, there is no place more enchanting than Dalton Farms. I am an avid flower lover and this place is grand. I can’t believe this is only 15 min away from me!

Situated in the heart of the Swedesboro countryside, this picturesque location offers an unparalleled setting for your tulip photo shoot. With endless rows of meticulously cultivated tulip fields, each bloom seemingly competing to display its brilliance, Dalton Farms presents a captivating backdrop that is sure to take your breath away. The meticulously maintained gardens boast a vast array of tulip varieties, ensuring an abundant selection for your creative vision. Whether you seek a traditional, elegant setting or a whimsical, fairytale-like atmosphere.

Dalton Farms has it all. The gentle, rolling hills surrounding the farm further enhance the charm of this location, providing multiple vantage points for capturing breathtaking shots. With its expansive and meticulously tended tulip gardens, Dalton Farms stands as the epitome of natural beauty, making it the best place to bring your tulip photo shoot dreams to life.

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The beauty in the tulip fields at Dalton Farms.

It really isn’t a joke, but hey you can laugh… go ahead. New Jersey is the butt of many jokes in the US.

Many people think of parking lots, shopping malls, the Jersey Shore, industrial complexes and pollution when they think of New Jersey, but boy… they are wrong (and let them think that). Shhh. 

We have some of the top ranked schools in the country (hence, there are really high property taxes), bleh on that because they are almost one of the highest in the country. However, there is a reason why it is the Garden State. 

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Last of the evening and enjoying the fields. I love just playing at our sessions. They are always so much fun. Dalton Farms NEVER disappoints whether you want to pick tulips, sunflowers or dance around the wildflower field, they always have something in bloom!

Our soil… for one, has some of the best nutrients in the country. That and location/average temperatures, adequate rainfall, can produce some beautiful vegetation. Which is what brings us here to these tulip sessions we did at Dalton Farms!

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The swing they have on display is always a fun time !

Swinging in the South Jersey tulips.

That “vegetation” is what I like to showcase in my images. From flower fields, flower gardens, to hay fields, I got you covered! 

For this instance, this was at Dalton Farms tulip farm in Swedesboro, New Jersey. Quick and easy access from Philadelphia and Delaware and right off of 295. This is a farm that seems to grow and have more offerings year after year. However, not always extremely packed and room to breathe. (Not a crazy tourist trap) which is nice! 

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The twirling beauty at Dalton Farms.

This year we set out on spring break! It was wonderful that peak bloom fell on this week! We were able to go on a cloudy day, which makes for gorgeous images, when shooting in an open field area. It also helps to beat the crowds! Duh, doesn’t everyone want to avoid crowds?

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Beauty picking tulips at Dalton Farm in NJ. I also love green among flowers. It makes everything pop. Dress by Joyfolie.

Capturing the Essence of Tulips: Why Choose Shooting Star Photography LLC for Your Photo Shoot

Unleash the Beauty of Tulips

At Shooting Star Photography LLC, we understand the allure and enchantment that tulips possess. These vibrant and elegant flowers have an undeniable charm that deserves to be captured flawlessly in photographs. If you are searching for an extraordinary photography experience that encapsulates the essence of tulips and wanting to get one of a kind portraits, look no further than us.

Experience and Expertise

Our team at Shooting Star Photography LLC consists of highly skilled and experienced photographers who have a deep understanding of tulips and how to bring out their best in photographs. With years of experience capturing the beauty of nature, we possess the technical expertise and artistic vision to transform tulips into captivating works of art.

Tailor-Made Packages

We believe that every client and every tulip photo shoot is unique. That's why we offer tailor-made packages that cater to your specific requirements and preferences. Whether you want a dreamy sunrise shoot amidst a vast field of tulips or an intimate close-up session showcasing the intricate details of individual blooms, our packages can be customized to meet your desires.

Want to coordinate and wear a beautiful dress from my client closet? Sure, go for it. We want you to have the perfect photo shoot! That’s what we are here for!

On-Location Expertise

As a specialized photography company, we have extensive knowledge of the best tulip farms and gardens in the area. From the renowned fields of Skagit Valley to the hidden gems spread across the countryside, we can recommend and guide you to the most picturesque locations for your tulip photo shoot. Our expertise ensures that you capture the tulips at their finest, against stunning backdrops that enhance their natural beauty.

Attention to Detail

We believe that every photograph should tell a story, and tulips have captivating tales to share. Our photographers pay meticulous attention to detail, from the lighting and composition to the colors and textures, ensuring that every aspect of your tulip photo shoot is carefully thought out and executed to perfection. We strive to create images that transport you back to that special moment, evoking the essence and emotion of the tulips.

Unforgettable Experience

Beyond the technicalities, we prioritize your experience with us. From the moment you book your shoot to the final delivery of your photographs, we aim to provide exceptional customer service and create an unforgettable experience. Our friendly and professional photographers will make you feel at ease, allowing your personality to shine through your photographs while capturing the ethereal beauty of tulips.

Preserving the Memories

Tulips bloom only for a short period, making it crucial to savor their beauty and preserve those moments forever. By entrusting your tulip photo shoot to Shooting Star Photography LLC, you are ensuring that these fleeting moments are captured professionally and artfully, giving you cherished memories that will last a lifetime.


Make Shooting Star Photography LLC your trusted partner for an extraordinary tulip photo shoot. Contact us today to discuss your requirements and let us capture the alluring charm of tulips through our lenses. Your photo shoot session will rock!

This is my favorite image I have ever taken at Dalton Farms! It’s art! Plus, it is my little girl! How cool is that?

Well, just look at the results that we posted. I don’t think I need to say anything much further. Afterwards, we picked some tulips to bring home and got done just in time before the rain! It was a beautiful day, that produced amazing results and we can’t wait to go back next year and we hope to see you here!

If you would like to get on the schedule for next year, please contact us as our sessions book up quick!

Have a magical day, my friends!

Dee

Owner of Shooting Star Photography 

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The Spunk of A Three Year Old- The Joys of a South Jersey Mom

Tips for Photographing Three-Year-Olds

Photographing three-year-olds can be a delightful and challenging experience. These little ones are full of curiosity, boundless energy, and spontaneous emotions, making it challenging to capture the perfect shot.

Oh the joys of motherhood, right? We absolutely love that two to four year old age. This is the age where they challenge you and test your strongest wits.

Having a 3-year-old is a whirlwind of joy, energy, and constant discovery. Life with a toddler is a nonstop adventure filled with laughter, tantrums, and adorable antics. They have an insatiable curiosity, eagerly exploring their surroundings and asking endless questions.

From the moment they wake up until they reluctantly drift off to sleep, their energy is boundless, keeping everyone around them on their toes. Patience is tested as they assert their independence, often insisting on doing things their way. Yet, amidst the chaos, there are countless precious moments of pure bliss and wonderment. Seeing the world through their eyes is a gift, as they marvel at the simplest things and approach every experience with awe. With their infectious laughter and unconditional love, a 3-year-old brings immeasurable joy and reminds us of the beauty in life's simple pleasures.

So we move onto what it is like as a photographer capturing this three year old… fantastical stage.

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My three year old is giving me the spunk!

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My precious little.

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Dancing in Salem County, NJ

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Snow Princess wearing Anna Triant Couture.

 

I figured I’d write about my current journey of this monster… I mean princess. The emotional roller coaster at this stage is rather funny. My daughter could be crying one minute to laughter the next. This stage never ceases to amaze me.

Oh... how I love the spunk of a three year old! Since I am mostly an outdoor photographer and it's been BRUTALLY cold outside, this is the time to play around and try new things. I still have sessions even in this brutal cold, but we do have a bit more down time!  have to admit... I am loving this down time.

This year, I have made it a goal to photograph my kids more. 2017, I was so busy that I couldn't see straight and will never work that way again. I love to work hard, but no sleep and being up to 4am every night editing, isn't the kind of life or existence I wish to have. So this year, things will be different.I've cut back on sessions I wish to schedule and am going to be cutting back with mini sessions.

I wish to be more present in my kids' lives. This is my goal and is what is going to happen this year. I wish to also take more photographs of my kids so that I can remember these moments. It's what got me into photography.

For me, it's about going back to my roots and getting to showcase some of the moments with my children that I can NEVER get back.   These are some moments the past few months, I have been able to capture of my little girl. I definitely think I have truly captured her go with the flow personality. She's got a lot of spunk and she's funny.. It's what I love about her. She's not afraid to be herself. You'll catch her putting on a dance at restaurants and feeling the music. With folks laughing and enjoying her spunk, as I do and treasure.

She's everything I could have ever asked for in regards to having a daughter. Just like my little boy is everything I could have asked for. I truly feel blessed to have these two in my life and feel privileged that I am their mom. They're amazing little creatures. I hope you enjoy these images, as I do. 

I feel I have been able to capture her and her essence. Her personality shows through here. This is what I try and capture with every one of my clients. I really don't want a perfect photograph. I want to capture these kids for who they truly are. For this child.. it's spunk and joy and it's what these images mean to me. 


Here are some tips for yourself in capturing your three year old!

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Playing in the tulips in Salem County, NJ.

Tips for Photographing Three-Year-Olds

Photographing three-year-olds can be a delightful and challenging experience. These little ones are full of curiosity, boundless energy, and spontaneous emotions, making it challenging to capture the perfect shot. However, with a few tips and tricks, you can create memorable photographs that beautifully showcase the essence of their age and personality. Here are some valuable suggestions to help you make the most of your photography session with three-year-olds:

1. Be Patient and Flexible

One of the most crucial aspects of photographing three-year-olds is being patient and flexible. Children at this age have ever-changing moods and limited attention spans. Be prepared to adapt to their rhythm and follow their lead. Allow breaks, playtime, or even a quick snack if needed. This flexibility will help create a relaxed and enjoyable environment, resulting in more authentic and candid photographs.

2. Establish a Connection

Building a connection and establishing rapport with the child is essential for a successful photography session. Spend some time chatting with them, learning their interests, and understanding their personality. Engage in playful conversations, jokes, or games to create a sense of trust and comfort. When they feel at ease with you, they are more likely to express themselves authentically, resulting in more natural and spontaneous photographs.

3. Choose the Right Location

Selecting an appropriate location is crucial for three-year-old photography. Opt for familiar and comfortable settings such as their home, a local park, or a place they enjoy visiting. These environments will help them feel relaxed and encourage their natural behavior, leading to more genuine and captivating photographs.

4. Capture Candid Moments

Three-year-olds are known for their charming and unpredictable behavior. Instead of forcing them into specific poses, try to capture candid moments. Encourage them to play, explore, or engage in their favorite activities. Candid shots often reflect their genuine expressions and emotions, resulting in precious and heartwarming photographs.

5. Get Down to Their Level

To truly capture the world from a child's perspective, get down on their eye level. This approach allows you to photograph them from a unique angle and create a more intimate connection with the frame. By adopting their eye level, you can bring out the innocence and wonder of their world, enhancing the overall impact of your photographs.

6. Use Props and Toys

Incorporating props and toys can add a touch of creativity and playfulness to your photographs. Allow the child to bring their favorite toys or props to the session. Not only do props help to create a sense of familiarity and comfort, but they also provide an opportunity for the child to engage in a fun and interactive way. Utilize these elements to tell a story or capture the child's interests and imagination.

7. Involve Parents or Siblings

Including parents or siblings in the photography session can create a sense of unity and affection. The presence of loved ones often elicits genuine emotions and expressions from the child. Encourage interactions and natural connections between family members, capturing those heartwarming and precious moments.

8. Timing is Key

Choose the optimal time for the session, considering the child's routine and energy levels. Avoid scheduling the session when they are tired, hungry, or during their usual naptime. Opt for a time when the child is well-rested, fed, and in a playful mood. Planning the session around their schedule will increase the chances of a successful and enjoyable experience.


Remember, photographing three-year-olds is about capturing their unique essence and personality and they sure all have personalities, right? Embrace their energy, spontaneity, and sense of wonder throughout the session. By being patient, flexible, and creating a connection, you can produce beautiful and cherished photographs that freeze these precious moments in time.

Happy shooting, friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

the baby whisperer of three year olds

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Another session in the books!!

Another session in the books!!

From Vintage to Vibrant: A Two-Year-Old’s Style in a New Jersey Tulip Photo Shoot

As a photographer in South Jersey, I've had the opportunity to capture some truly beautiful moments. One of my recent favorites was a two-year-old photo shoot set in a New Jersey tulip field. The spring photoshoot was full of fun and energy, and the little girl was the star of the show. In this blog post, I'll share some of the highlights of the session and the beautiful moments we captured.

From Vintage to Vibrant: A Two-Year-Old’s Style in a New Jersey Tulip Photo Shoot

As a photographer in South Jersey, I've had the opportunity to capture some truly beautiful moments. One of my recent favorites was a two-year-old photo shoot set in a New Jersey tulip field. The spring photoshoot was full of fun and energy, and the little girl was the star of the show. In this blog post, I'll share some of the highlights of the session and the beautiful moments we captured.

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The Two-Year-Old Star of the Photo Shoot

As the photographer for this two-year-old photo shoot, I was excited to work with such a lively and spirited little girl. She had an attitude that was infectious, and both her mom and I loved it. She was full of life and energy, and I knew from the start that she would be the star of the show.

One of the things that I love about working with young children is their ability to express themselves freely. This little girl was no exception, and she wasn't shy in front of the camera. Her personality shone through in every shot, and it was clear that she was having a blast.

One of my favorite moments from the shoot was when she was playing with the tulips. She was so curious and playful, and the joy on her face was infectious. Another moment that stood out was when she was running through the tulip field with her mom. It was a beautiful moment that captured the bond between them perfectly.

Throughout the shoot, I was constantly inspired by the little girl's energy and personality. She was full of surprises and kept me on my toes, which is exactly what I love about working with young children. It was an absolute joy to work with her and capture her spirit on camera.

Overall, the little girl was the star of the show, and I'm so glad that I had the opportunity to work with her. As a photographer in New Jersey, I'm always grateful for the chance to capture these special moments, and this photo shoot was definitely one of the highlights of my career.

Setting the Scene in a New Jersey Tulip Field

As a photographer in New Jersey, I'm always looking for beautiful locations to set the scene for my photo shoots. For this two-year-old session, I knew that a tulip field would be the perfect backdrop for the spring photos we had planned. The field we chose was located in New Jersey and it was in full bloom with bright, vibrant tulips. The colors of the flowers were absolutely stunning and they really added to the beauty of the photos.

On the day of the shoot, we were blessed with perfect weather - plenty of sunshine to light up the field. The warm, natural light was perfect for capturing the little girl's joyful energy. The tulips provided a colorful and unique setting that really made the photos stand out. It was such a pleasure to capture the little girl playing amongst the flowers and having fun. The tulips were a great way to add an extra element of whimsy to the shoot.

As a photographer, I always try to find locations that are both beautiful and practical. The tulip field offered plenty of open space for the little girl to run around and explore. It also provided some great photo opportunities, with the tulips adding a touch of magic to every shot. Overall, the tulip field was the perfect setting for this two-year-old photo shoot. I'm so glad that we were able to capture these special moments in such a beautiful location.

The Vintage Outfit: Elegance and Simplicity

As I planned this two-year-old photo shoot, I knew that the outfits were going to be an important aspect of the shoot. For the first part of the session, we decided to go with a vintage outfit. The outfit was a beautiful white dress with lace details, and a small flower crown. The simplicity of the outfit was perfect for the tulip field, and it allowed the little girl's personality and energy to shine through.

When I first saw the little girl in her vintage outfit, I knew that we had made the right choice. The outfit was elegant and timeless, and it really brought out her natural beauty. The lace details added a touch of sophistication to the outfit, and the flower crown was a beautiful accessory that tied the whole look together.

One of the things that I loved about the vintage outfit was how it looked against the backdrop of the tulip field. The white dress was the perfect contrast to the bright colors of the flowers, and it really made the little girl stand out. The simplicity of the outfit allowed the focus to be on the little girl's personality and energy, which was exactly what we wanted.

Overall, the vintage outfit was a great choice for the first part of the photo shoot. It was simple, elegant, and timeless, and it allowed us to capture some beautiful moments with the little girl. From playing with the tulips to snuggling with her mom, the outfit was versatile enough to work in a variety of settings. As a photographer in New Jersey, I'm always looking for ways to bring out the best in my subjects, and the vintage outfit was a great way to do just that.

The Transition into an Anna Triant Dress

For the second half of the photo shoot, we wanted to switch things up and showcase a different style for the little girl. We chose to put her in an Anna Triant dress, a beautiful pink dress with a fun and vibrant pattern. As a photographer in New Jersey, I'm always looking for ways to add a pop of color to my photos, and this dress was the perfect way to do just that.

As soon as the little girl put on the dress, her energy level skyrocketed. She loved the dress, and it showed in her body language and expressions. The vibrant colors of the dress looked amazing against the backdrop of the tulip field, and it really helped to add an extra element of whimsy to the photos.

As we continued the shoot, I could see the little girl's personality shining through in every shot. Her energy and joy were infectious, and it was clear that she was having a great time. The dress allowed her to move freely and express herself, which made for some amazing photos. It was a joy to see her having so much fun and being able to capture those moments on camera.

Overall, the Anna Triant dress was the perfect choice for the second half of the photo shoot. It allowed the little girl's energy to shine through and added a pop of color to the photos. As a photographer in New Jersey, I'm always looking for ways to showcase my subjects in the best possible light, and this dress was a great way to do just that.

Capturing the Perfect Moments

As a photographer, my ultimate goal is always to capture the perfect moment. During this two-year-old photo shoot, there were so many amazing moments to capture, and I felt honored to be able to capture them. From the little girl's playful energy to her sweet moments with her mom, there were plenty of opportunities for beautiful photos.

As the shoot progressed, I was constantly inspired by the little girl's energy and personality. She kept me on my toes, and I never knew what she was going to do next. But it was that unpredictability that made the shoot so exciting and allowed me to capture some truly beautiful moments.

One of the things that I love about photography is being able to capture the essence of a person. And with this little girl, it was clear that her personality was what made her so special. She had an infectious energy and attitude that was impossible to ignore. It was an absolute joy to be able to capture that on camera.

Overall, capturing the perfect moment is what makes photography so special to me. And with this photo shoot, I felt like we were able to capture so many beautiful moments that this family will treasure for years to come. I'm grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of it, and I look forward to capturing more special moments in the future.

Final Thoughts on the Photo Shoot

I've been fortunate to capture some truly special moments. This two-year-old photo shoot in a New Jersey tulip field was definitely one of them. From the moment I met the little girl, I knew that she was going to be a star. Her energy and personality were infectious, and it was an absolute joy to work with her.

One of the things that I loved about this photo shoot was the versatility. We were able to showcase two different styles with the vintage outfit and the Anna Triant dress. Both outfits were beautiful in their own way, and they allowed us to capture a variety of different moments.

The tulip field was the perfect setting for the photo shoot, and it really helped to make the photos stand out. The colors of the flowers were absolutely stunning, and they added an extra element of whimsy to the photos!

Final Thoughts

I LOVE photography! It is my dream to do and to capture these memories for folks!!! I will be honest, this age is the most difficult to photograph! I find that if you encourage your subject to interact with the environment then you can definitely get some great photographs!!! This session was a ton of fun as mom was up for anything. We drove to 4 different locations within a few miles of one another to give a little fun variety.  Which was near me in Salem County, in South Jersey!!! I LOVE where I live! Lots of country, lots of nature and forest!!  We started in our garden, then took a nice drive up Route 40 and then looped around to a field off of 45... and then made our way to the Nature Preserve near East Lake!!! It was a fun day!! I hope mom enjoys her very colorful photos!!! I just delivered these to her mailbox!!! I will post some more shoots soon!! Been very busy and my focus has been editing albums and getting them out the door!!! I am also scaling back real soon! I can't take on the workload that I have been currently undertaking. I will be going down to one per week starting NOW! My year is almost full, so you may want to book soon! Also, have a very Happy 4th this weekend!!! We will be celebrating our son's 5th big boy birthday!! Very excited for our family gathering!!! 

Happy Shooting my friends and New Jersey!!!!  Can't wait to share some upcoming plans and concept shoots with you!!! 

Dee  

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