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.

Shooting Star Photography Shooting Star Photography

Why are unicorns so magical? NJ’s Best Unicorn Photographer

Unicorns are often portrayed as beautiful, graceful, and mysterious creatures with a single horn on their forehead. The idea of a creature that looks like a horse, but has a magical horn, captures the imagination of many children and adults alike. You can also find them frolicking in the magical forests of New Jersey.

Unicorns are often portrayed as beautiful, graceful, and mysterious creatures with a single horn on their forehead. The idea of a creature that looks like a horse, but has a magical horn, captures the imagination of many children and adults alike.

One reason that unicorns are particularly magical to children is that they are often associated with innocence, purity, and goodness. Many stories and myths depict unicorns as gentle creatures that only allow themselves to be approached by those who are pure of heart. Hence, those little and cute rascals. 

This idea of a magical creature that rewards kindness and goodness can be particularly appealing to children who are learning about the importance of being kind and compassionate to others.

Additionally, the idea of a magical creature with a single horn may tap into children's fascination with magic and the unknown. Unicorns are often portrayed as having special powers, such as the ability to heal or the power to grant wishes. These powers can be particularly enchanting to children who are still discovering the wonders of the world around them.

unicorn photographer, best unicorn photographer, new jersey unicorn photographer, philadelphia unicorn photographer, sewell nj unicorn photographer, mullica hill nj unicorn photographer, vineland nj unicorn photographer, south jersey photographer,

A magical unicorn awaits your child in the enchanted forests of New Jersey.

Unicorns in Mythology 

Unicorns are a popular creature in mythology and have been featured in stories and legends from various cultures around the world. Some of the most well-known appearances of unicorns in mythology include:

  1. Ancient Greek mythology: The Greek historian Ctesias wrote about a creature called the "Indian wild ass" that had a single, white horn on its forehead, which is believed to be one of the earliest references to unicorns.

  2. European folklore: In medieval Europe, unicorns were often depicted as a symbol of purity and were believed to be able to purify water with their horn. They were also associated with royalty and were often included in coat of arms and other heraldry.

  3. Chinese mythology: In Chinese mythology, the Qilin is a creature that is often depicted with a single horn and is believed to be a bringer of good luck and prosperity.

  4. Indian mythology: In Hindu mythology, the unicorn-like creature is known as the Indrik, which is said to have the power to purify water and grant wishes.

  5. Persian mythology: In Persian mythology, the unicorn is called the Shadhavar, which is a deer-like creature with a single horn that is said to be able to kill snakes.

I find it fascinating that unicorns have been depicted in all if the old world… and guess what? You can also find them frolicking in the magical forests of New Jersey. 

A unicorn photo session for a child is a magical and unforgettable experience. Here's a description of what a typical unicorn photo session with Shooting Star Photography looks like:

unicorn photographer, best unicorn photographer, new jersey unicorn photographer, philadelphia unicorn photographer, sewell nj unicorn photographer, mullica hill nj unicorn photographer, vineland nj unicorn photographer, south jersey photographer,

Magic everywhere. We also provide the gowns as a courtesy to our clients. There is no additional fee.

First, the child and their family would arrive at the location of the photo session, which might be a beautiful outdoor setting like a meadow or a forest. There, they greeted by myself and the staff. We then guide you over to our dresses and help you choose your dress for the day. We have a large changing tent on location for your privacy. We help you get dolled up and will match up a tiara or flower crown. 


When ready, we introduce you to our magical unicorn, who is gentle and friendly, and might even have a sparkling, glittery horn!

Your child would then have the opportunity to interact with the unicorn, perhaps by petting or brushing its mane, or even feeding it some treats. I would capture these special moments on camera, ensuring that the child has plenty of wonderful memories to look back on.


Next, your child would have the chance to pose for photos with the unicorn. They might sit on the unicorn's back or stand next to it, and I would take a variety of shots from different angles to capture the beauty and magic of the moment.

Throughout the photo session, the unicorn's handler and I work together to ensure that your child is safe and comfortable at all times. We would also provide guidance on how to interact with the unicorn and make sure that your child's experience is as magical and enchanting as possible.

After the photo session is over, your child would have the opportunity to say goodbye to the unicorn and perhaps even get s special kiss and a little treat to remember their magical encounter. Overall, a unicorn photo session is an incredibly special and unforgettable experience for any child who loves these mythical creatures!

We then help guide you to get dressed for your separated back home. We will then contact you with all the proofs from the day to be able to choose your magical memories! Then we edit the choices you made and will send you a final gallery of your enchanting day. These are such treasures to look back on and children love seeing them displayed at home. 

unicorn photographer, best unicorn photographer, new jersey unicorn photographer, philadelphia unicorn photographer, sewell nj unicorn photographer, mullica hill nj unicorn photographer, vineland nj unicorn photographer, south jersey photographer,

The princess and her magical unicorn. It is always the best experience for the princess in your life.

Overall, unicorns are magical to children because they represent a world of imagination, wonder, and possibility. They offer a glimpse into a world that is full of beauty, kindness, and mystery, which can be particularly appealing to young minds that are still exploring and learning about the world. It’s a fantastic experience for any child to have. 

If you would love a unicorn portrait experience with us at various locations throughout South Jersey from meadows, to beaches and to magical forests, we have you covered. 

Our only upcoming mini session can be found here. However, we offer private unicorn sessions and would need to be contacted directly.

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee Giumetti

Shooting Star Photography

Read More

Magical Unicorn Photographer | New York | New Jersey | Delaware |PA

Unicorn Sessions are magical in New Jersey. Come and be a princess for the day with a top South Jersey family photographer!

Unicorn photoshoot | NJ Portraits| Family Photographer South Jersey

Deep in the heart of the forest of Southern New Jersey, there lies a magical realm where unicorns roam free. It is here that Dee, the photographer, of Shooting Star Photography captures the most whimsical and enchanting moments of children and families as they embark on a mystical journey with these beautiful creatures.

Magical unicorn session in NJ featuring a young girl in a blue and gold dress kissing a unicorn in a forest. Captured by a South Jersey unicorn photographer, specializing in enchanting children's portraits in Sicklerville, NJ, and beyond.

Magical forest and unicorn kisses! It's always a fun time when you are able to kiss your magical unicorn!

A dreamlike children's portrait experience for families in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Delaware, captured by a top NJ unicorn photographer

Twirling with my magical unicorn!

Our Magical Children’s Portraits in NJ

One sunny afternoon, a family of four arrived at the forest, their eyes wide with wonder as they gazed at the lush trees and glittering sunlight that filtered through the branches. Dee greeted them warmly, and as they walked deeper into the woods, the family could hear the soft sound of hooves and the gentle tinkling of bells in the distance.

As they rounded a bend, they came face to face with a beautiful unicorn, her coat gleaming in the sunlight. The children gasped in delight and the parents couldn't help but smile as Dee began to capture these magical moments. 

Magical unicorn session in South Jersey featuring a young girl smiling with a unicorn. A whimsical children's portrait experience for families in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Delaware, captured by a top NJ unicorn photographer.

Cuteness with the unicorn. XOXO and all the fun and smiles!

A fairytale-inspired children's portrait experience for families in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Delaware, captured by a top NJ unicorn photographer.

Another smooch for my unicorn friend!

Girl gazing up at the sky during a magical unicorn session in South Jersey. Enchanting children's photography in NJ, NY, PA, and DE.

Gazing out to the magical unicorn forest… with my pal by my side.

Unicorn Photography Magic in DE, NY, PA and NJ

The family sat atop the unicorn, marveling at the beauty of the forest around them. Dee captured shots of the family as they petted and hugged the unicorn, who seemed to be enjoying the attention just as much as they were.

As the session continued, the family was led deeper into the forest, where they encountered other unicorns, each one more magnificent than the last. The family twirled and danced with these majestic creatures, creating memories that they would never forget.

When the session was over, the family left the forest feeling exhilarated and amazed by the magical experience they had just had. They knew that they had captured something truly special with Shooting Star Photography and couldn't wait to return for another session, perhaps next time with even more family members or friends.

And so, another magical day in the forest of Southern New Jersey came to a close, leaving behind memories that the family would treasure for a lifetime.

Book your magical unicorn experience today!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

Check our our Magical Unicorn Portfolio
Read More
photographers in South... Shooting Star Photography photographers in South... Shooting Star Photography

Magical Winter Unicorn Experience 2021... Just Launched!

Unicorns.... It's what we do BEST around here. We have had folks come in from all over the country to be photographed with our real life unicorns! We truly like to make it a unique experience for everyone!

I truly enjoy seeing every child's face when they see the wonderment of their unicorn. It is truly incredible seeing magic unfold between your eyes and the interaction of child and unicorn. Each child falls in love and it melts my heart! I am still working on my little girl to do such a session and I think she's now ready!!! I want to post these all over my own wall of this art!

Unicorn Sessions, magical, New Jersey unicorn photography, Philadelphia unicorn sessions, New York unicorn sessions, children's portraits with unicorns
I absolutely LOVE capturing the magic of a unicorn session, here in South Jersey!

unicorn sessions are just magical, South Jersey unicorn photographer making magic for children.
unicorn sessions are just magical, South Jersey unicorn photographer making a magical experience for children.

Two sisters enjoying their magical unicorn experience! We love our job!

We hope to see you for this magical unicorn photography experience, this upcoming March! We cannot wait to capture some unique memories and portraits for you and your children!

With every single unicorn session, we bring dresses in girls sizes from 2-14 and headpieces. All you need to do, is show up and smile and have a great time! We will take care of the rest for you!

Until we meet again, South Jersey! Hope to work with you soon! Let's make this a magical unicorn experience for your princess or prince!

Dee

Owner of Shooting Star Photography

Read More
photographers in South... Shooting Star Photography photographers in South... Shooting Star Photography

SATURDAY, MAY 2nd Magical Unicorn Sessions!

We are South Jersey's magical unicorn provider! Please join us for our only unicorn session planned for 2020. In a beautiful magical wooded location in the spring! These are all about your little princess!!!! It's such a lovely experience for all! We really try to make it a magical day!

We will provide dresses, as well as headpieces for this event to coordinate with the setting. Just shoot us your dress size. Sizes we provide are girls sizes from 2 to 16.

Unicorn sessions, magical unicorn sessions, photographers in south jersey, family photographers in new jersey, unicorn sessions
Magical Unicorn sessions in South Jersey

Session also includes 3 magical edits!! High resolution files!

Your choice of images and will be provided an online proofing gallery for you to choose the images you want edited.

Additional images may be purchased.
Sunday, May 3rd, 2020 will be rain date.

Please only book if can attend both dates listed. In the event of weather, we may have to utilize our rain date!

We hope to see you here!

$100 is to reserve spot. $250 will be due approximately one week prior to session.

Total for session is $350.

Session to be held in a magical forest location in Gloucester County, New Jersey, as shown here. Hopefully, some fall color during this time!

Hours will run from 5:30pm to 7pm.

Please only book if can attend both dates.

Unicorn sessions, magical unicorn sessions, photographers in south jersey, family photographers in new jersey, unicorn sessions
pretty unicorn in south jersey

If you would like to book, you may do so at this link! https://shootingstarphotographyllc.bigcartel.com/product/unicorn-session-350

Hope to see you here!

Read More
South Jersey Photographer, Unicorn session Shooting Star Photography South Jersey Photographer, Unicorn session Shooting Star Photography

Our Magical Sessions!

Did you know unicorns are not found in Greek mythology? They are actually in accounts of their natural history! For Greek writers, they were convinced that unicorns were real. Not only were unicorns written about in Greece (Mesopotamia), they were also written in texts in the ancient text myths of India and China.  The first mention of unicorns are written in 2700BC!! Unicorns are described as a creature of great power and wisdom. It's no wonder why adults and children love them!There is nothing more spectacular and fulfilling then to make a child smile! A pure, genuine, happy smile. No fakery, just kids being themselves. It's every artist's dream to achieve that in their work. It's what I strive for in EVERY SINGLE SESSION. I want the best for my clients, every single time. When I get inquiries from parents that are looking for birthday photos with the classic cheesy smiles, it's just not in line with the work we do. We turn folks away. It's about managing expectations. We don't want you to waste a cent on something that is not us and something we cannot deliver. Life is too busy to waste! magical unicorn sessions, new jersey magical photography sessions, philadelphia family photographer, delaware county pa photographer, photographers in south jersey, unicorn photography sessionsunicorn photography sessions, magical unicorn sessions, photographers in south jersey, photographers jersey shore, photographers philadelphia, children's photographer haddonfield New JerseyI want to talk about out our magical unicorn sessions. We love them. It's not just a photo shoot to us, it's an experience for all who are involved. We bring two racks of dresses, headpieces and of course, the showstopper... the unicorn! You have a ton of princess dresses to choose from. We bring a changing tent so that you can have your privacy and get ready. All you need to do is show up! Everything is on location.Safety is huge for us. We have extra insurance because we are working with a live animal. We also contract with an experienced professional/handler who is also insured. The ponies we work with are experienced. Most are twenty plus years old and their behavior is pretty predictable at this stage in their life. The ponies we use, are use to being around children. A lot of them do pony parties and riding lessons. It's important that safety comes first in every single unicorn session we do. It's why we have an age limit for these types of sessions. Our goal is to not only provide you with beautiful imagery, but we want your children to feel safe and to have a magical experience! We really love creating these sessions for our customers. We have one date left this year. It is a rescheduled date. If interested, please email us, or fill out our contact form! We'd love to work with you! Happy Shooting, my friends! DeeShooting Star PhotographyNew Jersey Photographer          

Read More

Follow our journey around the Philadelphia Area.