Top Gun-Inspired Kids’ Photo Shoot Near Cape May, NJ
Top Gun Photo Shoot: Vintage Planes, Mini Mavericks & Maximum Fun in South Jersey
NAS Airport Photo Shoot Near Cape May, NJ
Buckle Up, Parents—This One’s Gonna Be a Ride! No pun intended… or is it?
Every parent knows that look—the one where your kid suddenly thinks they’re the main character in an action movie. And let me tell you, nothing brings out that inner Maverick like an airplane photo shoot! As a South Jersey photographer, I’ve seen it all, but this? This was Top Gun meets Peter Pan meets "Mom, look at me!"—and it was legendary.
This one is my favorite of the session. Classic, timeless and vintage. Love my aviation sessions!
The Need for Speed (Or At Least, A Cool Strut)
Picture this: A pint-sized pilot, decked out in a bomber jacket, strutting across the tarmac like they just got their first set of wings. The wind ruffles their hair (okay, fine, it was me with a reflector waving air at them), and they give the camera their best serious, “I’m about to take off” look. This is not your average kids’ portrait session—this is an adventure at 30,000 feet (okay, more like five feet, but it’s all about the illusion, right?).
Posing like a pro!
Each shot captures their excitement, their confidence, and that moment where they’re 100% convinced they could fly a plane. Spoiler: They cannot. But hey, dream big, kiddo!
Love this kid!
Vintage Planes & Little Dreamers
There’s something about old-school airplanes that just sparks the imagination—especially for kids. One minute, they’re cautiously touching the plane like it might take off without them; the next, they’re mapping out flight paths to who-knows-where.
Get it kiddo!
“I think I could land this,” one kid said with absolute confidence.
“Buddy, I sure hope not,” I replied.
But that’s the magic, isn’t it? Seeing the world through their eyes, where every cockpit is a portal to adventure and every runway leads to Neverland. Through my lens, I got to capture that unfiltered excitement—the kind that makes you believe anything is possible (even if the only thing taking off is their imagination).
The Wild Blue Yonder (And the Even Wilder South Jersey Sky)
Set against the backdrop of Wildwood/Cape May, this shoot had everything: nostalgia, drama, and at least one kid trying to convince me that sunglasses make them a “real” pilot. The vintage planes stood stoic, a reminder of aviation history, while these little daredevils ran circles around them, plotting their next imaginary mission.
Love this kid and how he’s posing away. The aviator glasses are awesome!
As a photographer, I love the contrast—the old and the new, the metal and the mischief. The result? A collection of images that are equal parts epic and adorable, and 100% guaranteed to make parents say, “Okay, that needs to be framed.”
Why I Love This Job (And Why I Need a Nap)
Being a South Jersey photographer means I get a front-row seat to moments like these. It’s not just about taking pictures—it’s about stepping into a world of adventure, imagination, and sometimes, a few too many Top Gun quotes.
Looking like Tom Cruise over here!
“Do I look like Tom Cruise?” one kid asked me.
“Absolutely, champ,” I replied, snapping away. Because in that moment? He sure did.
Whether it's an airplane photo shoot, a boys’ portrait session, or just another excuse to let kids be the heroes of their own stories, I’m here for it. And if you’re looking for an unforgettable experience for your little aviator, well—you know where to find me. (I’ll be the one trying to keep a straight face while your kid gives me their best "Top Gun" pose.)
Dee
Shooting Star Photography
Serving Philadelphia, Mainline, Northern Delaware, and all of Southern New Jersey.
