An Enchanted Forest Portrait Session in New Jersey

An Enchanted Forest Portrait Session in New Jersey

There’s something about the woods that instantly feels magical. The way the light filters through the trees, the quiet hush of the forest, and that sense that something special might happen at any moment.

For this session, it absolutely did.

This enchanted forest portrait session featured a 10-year-old girl in a rainbow gown, wandering through the woods, picking wildflowers, and spending time with a real unicorn. It felt less like a photoshoot and more like stepping straight into a storybook.

Why Forest Portrait Sessions Feel So Magical

Forests create the kind of light photographers dream about — soft, layered, and naturally flattering. As the sun moves through the trees, everything takes on a dreamy glow that can’t be replicated in a studio.

New Jersey’s wooded locations are especially beautiful for children’s portraits, offering a timeless backdrop that feels whimsical without feeling forced. The forest does most of the work — no magic wand required.

The Rainbow Gown & Tiara Moment

One of the highlights of this session was the rainbow gown from my client wardrobe, paired with a sparkling tiara. The dress moved beautifully as she walked through the forest, catching the light and adding to the fairytale feel of the session.

Client wardrobe pieces are designed to elevate portraits while still letting kids feel comfortable and confident. The result is images that feel styled but still authentic to who they are.

Wildflowers, Unicorns & Childhood Wonder

Of course, no enchanted forest session would be complete without a unicorn.

Drifter — the same unicorn from Sparkle-A Unicorn Tale — joined us in the woods, creating an experience this child will never forget. From petting a real unicorn to picking wildflowers along the forest path, the session was filled with genuine excitement, curiosity, and joy.

These are the moments that turn portraits into memories.

A Custom Experience for Every Child

Every child brings something different to a session, and that’s exactly what makes these portraits special. Whether it’s a woodland fairytale, a unicorn adventure, or another imaginative theme, each session is thoughtfully planned to reflect your child’s personality.

There’s no stiff posing here — just movement, laughter, and moments that feel real.

Ready to Plan a Magical Portrait Session?

If you’re dreaming of a children’s portrait session that feels imaginative, playful, and completely unique, an enchanted forest experience might be the perfect fit.

You can explore more children’s fine art portraits or learn more about unicorn portrait sessions to start planning something truly magical.

Dee
Shooting Star Photography
Serving Philadelphia, Mainline, Northern Delaware, and all of Southern New Jersey.

Medford NJ | Toddler Portraits | South Jersey Photographer

Ah, the toddler years. A magical time when tiny humans learn to walk, talk, and express their very strong opinions about absolutely everything. If you’re in the thick of it, you’re probably alternating between heart-melting moments and Googling, “Why does my toddler scream when I give them exactly what they asked for?” Welcome to the rollercoaster of parenting—where chaos reigns, but the snuggles are unbeatable.

Here’s a guide to help you survive (and maybe even enjoy!) the toddler years:

She wanted to just pick up rocks and have fun..

1. Embrace the Mess

Toddlers are like tiny tornadoes: cute, destructive, and impossible to predict. Your house may have once been a haven of tidiness, but now it’s decorated with crushed goldfish crackers and suspicious sticky spots. Lean into it. Invest in a good vacuum, washable everything, and accept that “clean” is a relative term.

Pro Tip: Take photos of the mess before you clean it. Someday, you’ll look back and laugh. Or at least that’s what people keep telling us.

Let the kids play and run! With toddler sessions, it should be a time for exploring and capturing this age of curiousity.

2. Channel Your Inner Negotiator

If you’ve ever tried to convince a toddler to wear pants, you know it’s like high-stakes hostage negotiation. They have an uncanny ability to turn the simplest requests into power struggles.

Helpful Strategy: Offer choices. “Do you want the red pants or the blue pants?” This trick makes them feel in control, even though you’re still calling the shots. And if they’re adamant about wearing a cape to the grocery store? Let them. Pick your battles.

This little gal was in her element. Wanting to ride the horsey and be a kid!

3. Snacks Are Life

Never underestimate the power of snacks. A well-timed string cheese or handful of animal crackers can prevent approximately 97% of tantrums. Keep an emergency stash in your bag, your car, and every coat pocket you own.

Warning: They will still demand the snack you don’t have. It’s a law of toddler nature.

4. Sleep Is a Myth

“Sleeping like a baby” is the biggest lie you’ll ever hear. Toddlers have two modes at bedtime: falling asleep in two minutes flat or waging an hours-long bedtime battle that leaves you questioning all your life choices.

Survival Tip: Stick to a bedtime routine—even if that means reading Goodnight Moon 47 times. And when they finally doze off, take a deep breath and enjoy a moment of peace… until they wake up again.

Mom and dad interacting with their adventurous daughter. She was picking up leaves and wanted to show them what she found.

5. Celebrate the Small Wins

Did your toddler use the potty for the first time? Ate a vegetable? Managed to go five minutes without yelling, “NO!”? These are victories, my friend. Celebrate them. Parenting toddlers is a marathon, and every little milestone deserves a high-five (and maybe a glass of wine).

6. Find the Humor

Toddlers are unintentionally hilarious. They’ll insist on wearing swim goggles to dinner, name every stuffed animal “Bob,” and mispronounce words in ways that will have you crying from laughter. Write these moments down. They’re comedy gold, and you’ll want to remember them when they’re teenagers rolling their eyes at you.

7. Give Yourself Grace

You’re not perfect, and neither is your toddler. Some days you’ll crush it, and other days you’ll serve chicken nuggets for every meal while counting down the minutes until bedtime. That’s okay. You’re doing your best, and your toddler thinks you’re a superhero (even if they don’t always act like it).

We always need to celebrate mom and dad at the end of our sessions.

8. Remember the Magic

Yes, the toddler years are exhausting, but they’re also magical. This is the stage when your little one’s personality blossoms, their curiosity knows no bounds, and their hugs can fix even the worst day. Soak it all in—sticky kisses, endless questions, and all.

Conclusion:

Surviving the toddler years takes a mix of patience, humor, and caffeine… lots of caffeine. But through all the chaos, remember that this stage doesn’t last forever. Someday, you’ll miss their tiny voices, chubby cheeks, and even the goldfish crumbs in your carpet. Until then, cherish the moments and hang on tight. You’ve got this!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Check out our baby and toddler portfolio for birthday portraits!

Mister Softee | South Jersey Photographer in Sewell, NJ

As the summer sun cast its golden glow over Sewell, NJ, we embarked on a unique and enchanting portrait session with a twist of nostalgia and sweetness. The backdrop? None other than the iconic Mister Softee ice cream truck, a symbol of childhood joy and summertime fun. This session was special, capturing the pure delight of a brother and sister as they enjoyed every moment of their ice cream adventure. The combination of vibrant colors, beautiful natural light, and the children's infectious joy made for an unforgettable experience and a stunning collection of photographs.

Siblings sharing a joyful moment while enjoying ice cream on a sunny day. and running towards mister softee.

Setting the Scene: A Perfect Summer Afternoon

The day was perfect, with clear blue skies and the kind of warm, golden sunlight that photographers dream of. As the Mister Softee truck pulled up, its familiar jingle filled the air, and the excitement on the children's faces was palpable. The ice cream truck, adorned with its colorful decals and cheerful logo, stood as a beacon of fun, drawing not just the kids but everyone around into its charm.

We chose Sewell, NJ, for its picturesque streets and welcoming community vibe. The location provided a lovely mix of urban and suburban elements, perfect for capturing a variety of backgrounds. From the lush greenery of nearby parks to the quaint charm of local streets, every angle offered a new and delightful perspective.

Delicious Mister Softee cones. Nom nom nom.

The Colors of Joy

One of the most striking elements of this photo session was the explosion of colors. The Mister Softee truck, with its bright blues, reds, and whites, provided a vibrant and cheerful backdrop. The children, dressed in playful summer outfits, added to the palette with their own bursts of color. Little details, like the multicolored sprinkles on their ice cream cones and the pastel hues of the melting treats, added layers of visual interest and charm.

The use of color was intentional, enhancing the sense of joy and playfulness. Bright yellows, pinks, and blues were everywhere, from the truck’s decals to the children's clothes and the ice cream itself. These vivid hues were beautifully highlighted by the golden afternoon light, creating images that were both lively and heartwarming.

I love her little ice cream dress!

Capturing the Light

Natural light is a photographer's best friend, and on this particular day, it was simply perfect. The late afternoon sun provided a soft, warm glow that bathed everything in a dreamy light. The light played beautifully with the vibrant colors, making them pop even more. Shadows were soft and flattering, adding depth without harshness.

As the session progressed, the light changed, offering a variety of moods. The golden hour approached, casting a rich, amber hue over the scene. This magical time of day added a touch of enchantment to the photos, with the light becoming softer and more diffused. The result was a series of images that felt both timeless and filled with the warmth of a perfect summer day.

He’s a cutie!

The Stars of the Show: A Brother and Sister's Delight

The heart and soul of this session were the brother and sister duo. Their genuine happiness and playful interactions were a joy to capture. From the moment they ran up to the ice cream truck, their faces lit up with excitement and anticipation. Each click of the camera captured their pure delight and the special bond they shared.

Enjoying life and ice cream!

Moments of Pure Joy

There were so many magical moments during this shoot. One of the highlights was when they received their ice cream cones. Their eyes widened with delight as they chose their favorite flavors, and the first taste brought out the biggest smiles. The brother, older and protective, helped his younger sister with her cone, making sure she didn't drop any of the precious treat.

Their playful interactions were priceless. They giggled as they compared cone sizes, teased each other about getting ice cream on their noses, and laughed at the inevitable drips that started to run down their hands. These candid moments of sibling fun were the essence of childhood joy and were captured beautifully in the photographs.

Best Friends.

The Ice Cream Truck Experience

The Mister Softee ice cream truck itself was more than just a backdrop; it was an integral part of the experience. The familiar jingle, the colorful illustrations, and the anticipation of choosing a favorite flavor added layers of excitement and nostalgia. It brought back memories of simpler times and created new, cherished moments for the children.

As they explored the truck, peeking inside and pointing out their favorite ice cream choices, their curiosity and excitement were infectious. The truck driver, a friendly figure who clearly enjoyed being part of such happy moments, added to the charm. He shared stories and laughed along with the children, making the experience even more memorable.

Just going to town with my ice cream.

The Beauty of Hand-Edited Photos

In our digital age, where filters and quick edits are commonplace, there's something truly special about hand-edited photos. Each image from this session was carefully and lovingly edited to enhance its natural beauty and to highlight the genuine emotions and vibrant colors. Hand-editing allowed for a level of detail and personalization that automated processes simply can't match.

Bringing Out the Best

The goal was to bring out the best in every photo, highlighting the joy, the light, and the colors in a way that felt authentic and timeless. Each smile, each playful glance, and each moment of pure delight was preserved and enhanced. The hand-editing process ensured that the images were not just pictures but stories, capturing the essence of the day and the personalities of the children.

A Personal Touch

Hand-editing is more than just a technical process; it's a personal touch that adds to the uniqueness of each session. It allows for a deeper connection with the photos, where every detail is thoughtfully considered and crafted. For this session, the editing focused on maintaining the natural warmth and light, enhancing the vibrant colors, and preserving the candid, joyful moments that made the day so special.

Creating Memories to Last a Lifetime

Photography is about more than just capturing images; it's about creating memories that will last a lifetime. This Mister Softee ice cream truck session was a perfect example of that. The photos from this day are more than just pictures; they are memories of a magical summer afternoon filled with laughter, joy, and sweetness.

She’s in her own ice cream world.

A Keepsake for the Family

For the family, these photos are a keepsake, a reminder of a special day and the happiness shared. They capture the essence of childhood, the joy of summer, and the special bond between brother and sister. These images will be treasured, bringing smiles and warm memories for years to come.

The Magic of Summer

Summertime is a season of magic, where the days are long, the sun is warm, and the possibilities for fun are endless. This session encapsulated that magic perfectly. From the vibrant colors to the beautiful light and the children's joyful expressions, every element came together to create a series of images that celebrate the essence of summer.

Runnnnn. got to get some Mister Softee!

Conclusion

The Mister Softee ice cream truck photo session in Sewell, NJ, was a delightful experience that brought together the best elements of childhood joy, vibrant colors, and beautiful natural light. The brother and sister duo, with their playful interactions and genuine happiness, were the perfect stars of this enchanting story. Through careful, hand-edited photos, we captured the magic of the day, creating memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.

If you're looking to capture the essence of your family's special moments with a unique and joyful twist, consider a themed photo session like this one. Whether it's an ice cream truck, a beach adventure, or a whimsical unicorn session, the possibilities are endless, and the memories created will be truly priceless.

Book Your Session Today

Ready to create your own magical photo session? Contact us to book your session and let us help you capture the beautiful moments of your family's journey. Whether it's summer fun, a special celebration, or just a day of joy, we're here to turn your memories into timeless treasures.

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

Celebrating a Birthday With a Princess-Themed Photo Shoot

There’s something truly special about watching a child step into a world they’ve only imagined — the moment the dress is zipped, the tiara is placed just right, and suddenly they’re no longer just a little girl celebrating a birthday… they’re royalty.

Princess collage… Why Not?

Princess-themed birthday photo shoots aren’t about perfection or posing. They’re about imagination, confidence, and preserving a fleeting season of childhood that passes far too quickly. These sessions are designed to feel magical, relaxed, and meaningful — an experience your child remembers long after the cake is gone.

Why Families Choose a Princess-Themed Birthday Session

A princess session is more than a themed portrait — it’s a celebration of who your child is right now.

I’ve watched children arrive shy and unsure, only to blossom the moment they realize they’re allowed to twirl, explore, and fully step into their story. Becoming a princess — even just for an afternoon — has a way of bringing out confidence, joy, and wonder in the most natural way.

Sisters at the portrait session.. standing real still for those tiaras.

These sessions are not rushed. There’s room for movement, curiosity, and real emotion. The goal isn’t to force smiles, but to let moments unfold organically while preserving them in a timeless, fine-art style.

If you’re looking for a fully styled, story-driven experience, you can learn more about my Princess Portrait Sessions on the main experience page.

Choosing the Right Birthday Photography Experience

Every family comes into a session with a different vision. Some want a simple, elegant birthday portrait. Others want a full fairytale — gowns, crowns, and a setting that feels straight out of a storybook.

I guide families through the entire process, helping them choose an experience that fits both their vision and their child’s personality. From shorter sessions with a curated image collection to more immersive experiences that allow for outfit changes and storytelling variety, the focus is always on creating something meaningful — not overwhelming.

My role is to simplify the process so you can enjoy it.

Locations That Bring the Fairytale to Life

New Jersey offers an incredible variety of locations that work beautifully for princess-themed birthday sessions.

From castle-inspired backdrops and historic estates to quiet fields, gardens, and sunset-lit paths, the setting is chosen carefully to support the story we’re telling. Some children feel most at home in a soft, romantic environment, while others shine in bold, dramatic spaces that match their adventurous spirit.

A prince giving his princess a kiss.

Whether we’re photographing sisters together, including a proud “prince,” or focusing solely on the birthday girl, the location becomes part of the narrative — never a distraction.

Styling Your Princess Look

Styling is where the transformation truly begins.

The right gown, crown, and accessories should feel magical and comfortable. I help families think through color palettes, textures, and silhouettes that photograph beautifully while allowing children to move freely and feel like themselves.

Twirling princess in her Anna Couture dress.

Some families choose soft, romantic tones. Others gravitate toward jewel colors or whimsical layers. Accessories are kept intentional — enough to elevate the look without overpowering the child wearing them.

The goal is simple: when your child looks in the mirror, they should feel confident, excited, and completely themselves.

Preparing for Your Session

A little preparation goes a long way.

I always encourage families to keep the day calm and unhurried. Comfortable shoes between shots, a favorite snack, and allowing your child to ease into the experience makes all the difference. There’s no pressure to “perform” — these sessions are designed to feel playful, gentle, and fun.

When children are relaxed, the magic shows naturally.

What the Session Feels Like

During the session, I offer gentle guidance while allowing plenty of space for movement and imagination.

Some moments are softly posed, others unfold naturally — a quiet glance, a twirl, a sibling hug, a prince stealing a sweet kiss. These in-between moments are often the ones families treasure the most.

My approach blends fine-art portraiture with real connection, ensuring the final gallery feels both elevated and emotionally authentic.

After the Session: Selecting Your Images

After your session, you’ll view a curated gallery that reflects the full story of the experience.

I help families select images that not only look beautiful, but feel meaningful — the ones that transport you back to this season of childhood every time you see them. Whether your vision includes wall art, an album, or a refined digital collection, the process is calm, guided, and intentional.

Nothing is rushed. These are memories meant to last.

A Birthday Worth Remembering

Princess-themed birthday sessions are about honoring childhood — the imagination, the wonder, and the fleeting magic of growing up.

With birthday portrait sessions with the princesses, we like to bring out the balloons!

If you’re considering a birthday session for your child and want something thoughtful, elevated, and deeply personal, I’d love to help you create it.

When you’re ready, reach out and we’ll begin planning an experience that feels just right for your family.

Ready to Plan a Princess Portrait Experience?

Dee
Shooting Star Photography

Luxury Photographer | Main Line Philadelphia & Bucks County

The NJ Photographer's Guide to a Magical Princess Birthday Shoot

Your Go-To Guide:

Once Upon a Time, in Main Line Philly…

or is it Mainline? It seems to differ upon the generation you speak to.

As a photographer, nothing gets me more excited than a princess photo shoot – especially when it’s for a birthday girl ready to turn her big day into an epic fairy tale. Let’s face it, there’s no better way to celebrate than by making your little one feel like royalty. Whether you’re in Mainline Philadelphia, Bucks County, or beyond, I’ve got the insider scoop to make your princess shoot magical (and hilarious). So, grab your tiara and let’s dive into the "Dee-ified" Princess Birthday Portrait Experience!

Holding her princess crown in her hand.

Step 1: Conceptualizing the Magic (aka Figuring Out What Makes Her Her)

The first thing we need to talk about: what kind of princess are we working with? Does she have a secret identity as a fairy-tale queen, or is she all about that Frozen life? It's essential that we vibe on the idea of her personality and favorite characters before even touching a camera. Sometimes, I feel like a detective, solving the mystery of which princess should rule her kingdom... but, y’know, with glitter.

She’s the cutest princess around!

Step 2: Assembling the Perfect Princess Wardrobe (Princesses Deserve Options)

Listen, this is her moment. As much as I love helping pick out the perfect dress (yes, I will totally get lost in the sparkles), it’s important she feels like herself. So, I always encourage my princesses to get involved. Is she into puffed sleeves? Does she want to wear a gown fit for a ball? Or is she more of a casual princess who likes to twirl in comfort? Whatever it is, we’ll have plenty of options – all comfortable enough to dance, jump, or even leap tall castles in a single bound (metaphorically, of course).

ALL the gorgeous dresses you see on our website are from our luxury client closet!

Two princesses wanted to wear rainbow… Rainbow is what they got!

Step 3: Tiaras, Crowns, and Royalty Vibes

Let’s be real – the crown is where the magic happens. When that tiara goes on, the transformation is instant. Suddenly, every little girl feels like she can rule the world (or at least the living room). We’ve got plenty of options – from glittery tiaras to the classic gold crown – each one designed to give that royal wow factor. Plus, it’s hilarious to watch them try them on and pick which one makes them feel the most regal.

Step 4: Picking the Perfect Backdrop (Fairy Tale, Meet Reality)

Okay, we need a backdrop that says "fairy tale" without overshadowing the main star of the show – the birthday girl. Whether we’re outside in a garden or in front of a digitally crafted castle (thanks, technology), the goal is to enhance the magic, not steal the spotlight. So we’ll go for something that complements her outfit and makes her feel like she's in her own royal world – but also won’t distract from her epic pose. (Trust me, it's a balance.)

Doing a twirl.

Step 5: Lighting the Magic (Because Bad Lighting is Never Royal)

You know what’s worse than a bad hair day? Bad lighting. That's why I pay extra attention to ensuring every shot is lit to perfection. Whether it's outdoor sunlight or studio lamps (yes, I know all the tricks), we’ll make sure the light hits just right to make her glow like the true princess she is. After all, every royal needs her moment in the spotlight!

The Princess showing off at the castle window.

Step 6: Posing Like a Pro (Posing, but Make It Fun)

I’m all about guiding my little princesses to pose like the pros – think “sitting on your royal throne” rather than “stiff as a board.” I might ask them to twirl, stand tall, or laugh like they've just seen their royal pet dragon. The key here? Make it lighthearted and natural, so her genuine joy shines through (trust me, those are the best shots). The goal is for her to feel like a real princess, not like she’s about to do a performance review.

Step 7: Candid Moments (The “Not Posed” Magic)

Now, while the posed shots are great, I live for those candid moments where the princess is just being herself – laughing, twirling, or looking at her crown with awe. These are the shots that make me tear up every time (don’t judge, I’m emotionally invested in every shoot). These moments capture the magic of the day, and they end up being the most cherished photos because they show her true spirit.

Little lady posing for us!

Step 8: Keeping It Fun & Comfortable (Because Even Princesses Need Snacks)

The key to a smooth shoot is making sure the birthday girl is relaxed and enjoying herself. So, we keep things light and fun – with frequent breaks, snacks, and maybe even a little princess playlist. The best part? She’s not just posing for the camera; she’s living in the moment, making memories, and laughing the whole time. I can’t stress this enough – the more fun, the better the photos!

Step 9: Editing (Fairy Dust, but Not Too Much)

Once the shoot is over, it’s time to work some magic in the editing room. Don’t worry – I won’t make her look like a cartoon character. I aim for a soft, dreamy glow to give that fairy-tale vibe without going overboard. Think of it like adding the perfect filter to a photo, but with a dash of elegance and a lot of sparkle.

A perfectly poised and posed princess.

Step 10: Delivering the Royal Treasures (AKA Those Photos You’ll Frame Forever)

The best part? The grand reveal of the photos. I love sending sneak peeks before the full gallery, just to keep the anticipation going. When the final images are ready, they come in a beautifully designed package or digital gallery, and let me tell you – the look on the parents' faces when they see their little one’s photos is priceless. These aren’t just photos; they’re cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee
Shooting Star Photography
Serving Philadelphia, Mainline, Northern Delaware, and all of Southern New Jersey.