A Guide to Mini Sessions | Medford NJ Portrait Photography

Capturing Spring's Magic

Spring, with its blooming flowers, warming temperatures, and renewed energy, is a photographer's dream. As the world awakens from its winter slumber, it's the perfect time to capture the beauty and vitality of the season. As a photographer, I've always been drawn to the magic of spring, and I'm thrilled to offer a variety of spring mini sessions this year. These sessions are designed to help families capture the fleeting moments of springtime joy without the stress of a full-length photo shoot. Join me as we explore the wonders of spring and learn how to make the most of these mini sessions.

Dogwoods are the first sign of spring in the Philadelphia region!

Understanding Spring Mini Sessions

Spring mini sessions are like a breath of fresh air in the world of photography. They offer a quick and convenient way for families to capture the magic of spring without committing to a lengthy photo shoot. Each session lasts around 15 minutes, making them perfect for families with young children or busy schedules. Despite their short duration, spring mini sessions are incredibly powerful, providing families with beautiful, professional photos that capture the essence of the season. From cherry blossoms to tulips to peonies, these sessions offer a glimpse into the beauty of spring that can be cherished for years to come.

Choosing the Right Location

Selecting the perfect location for spring mini sessions is essential to capturing the beauty of the season. I spend weeks scouting out the best spots, looking for places that are bursting with color and life. From parks to gardens to scenic overlooks, each location is chosen for its ability to showcase the beauty of spring in all its glory. Accessibility is also a key consideration, ensuring that families of all ages and abilities can easily access the location. By choosing the right location, we can create a stunning backdrop for your family photos that truly captures the magic of spring.

Preparing for Your Mini Session

Preparing for a spring mini session is like preparing for a day of adventure. It's essential to choose the right clothing and props to complement the season's vibrant colors and textures. Soft pastels, floral prints, and lightweight fabrics are perfect for springtime photo shoots, while props like blankets, flower crowns, and baskets of fresh flowers can add an extra touch of magic to your photos. It's also important to make sure everyone is well-rested and fed before the session to ensure that they're ready to smile and have fun. By taking the time to prepare, we can ensure that your spring mini session is a fun and memorable experience for the whole family.

Maximizing Your Session Time

With only 15 minutes to work with, it's essential to make the most of your spring mini session. Arriving on time is crucial, as it allows us to chat and get to know each other before the session begins. During the session, we'll move quickly from one location to the next, capturing a variety of shots in a short amount of time. I'll provide gentle guidance and direction to help you feel comfortable in front of the camera, but I'll also encourage you to relax and have fun. By keeping the energy high and the mood light, we can create beautiful, natural-looking photos that truly capture the essence of spring.

Understanding Lighting and Timing

Lighting plays a crucial role in photography, especially when it comes to capturing the beauty of spring. I prefer to schedule spring mini sessions during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and warm. This magical lighting enhances the natural beauty of the season, casting a soft glow over everything it touches. By scheduling our sessions during these optimal times, we can ensure that your photos have a warm, inviting feel that perfectly captures the magic of spring.

Encouraging Natural Interaction

First signs of spring are usually these yellow beauties! I cannot wait. Should be here soon!

One of the keys to capturing beautiful, natural-looking photos is to encourage natural interaction between family members. Instead of posing stiffly for the camera, I encourage families to interact with each other in a natural and spontaneous way. This might mean playing games, telling jokes, or simply enjoying each other's company. By encouraging natural interaction, we can capture genuine smiles, laughter, and expressions that truly reflect the unique personality of your family.

Capturing the Details

While it's essential to capture the big moments during a spring mini session, it's also important to pay attention to the little details that make spring so special. From the delicate petals of a flower to the sparkle of dew on the grass, these small details can add depth and texture to your photos, making them truly magical. I love to zoom in on these details, capturing the beauty of spring in all its glory. By paying attention to the details, we can create photos that are not only beautiful but also meaningful, capturing the essence of spring in all its glory.

Post-Session:

What to Expect After your spring mini session, the fun doesn't stop. I'll carefully edit each photo to ensure that it looks its best, enhancing colors, adjusting lighting, and removing any distractions. Within a few weeks, you'll receive a personalized gallery of your photos, where you can choose your favorites to print and share with family and friends. I'll be there to guide you through the selection process, offering my professional advice to help you choose the perfect photos to cherish for years to come.

Girl in a red dress among the yellow flowers. Love the ‘POP’ it gives!

Creating Lasting Memories

At the end of the day, spring mini sessions are about more than just taking photos. They're about creating lasting memories that you can cherish for years to come. Whether it's the laughter of your children, the beauty of the flowers, or the warmth of the sun on your face, these sessions capture the magic of spring in all its glory. As a photographer, it's my privilege to be able to capture these moments for you, freezing them in time so that you can revisit them whenever you like. These photos are more than just images; they're a testament to the beauty and joy of spring, and the love that binds your family together.

Booking Your Spring Mini Session

If you're ready to capture the magic of spring with your loved ones, now is the time to book your spring mini session. Slots fill up quickly, so don't wait! Reach out to me today to schedule your session and let's create some beautiful memories together. Whether it's the first blooms of cherry blossoms, the vibrant colors of tulips, or the softness of peonies, I'm here to capture it all. Let's make this spring one to remember, one photo at a time.

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

Our Spring mini sessions can be found here.

Farm Sessions: Capture Kids' Joy in Swedesboro NJ!

As a New Jersey photographer with a passion for the great outdoors and a knack for capturing candid moments, I've found that there's something truly special about a farm session in South Jersey. The rolling fields, the scent of fresh blossoms, and the laughter of children exploring - it's a picturesque backdrop that promises not just photos, but memories. And nothing quite compares to the vibrant, joyful atmosphere of a spring day spent amidst peach orchard blossoms, especially when you're in the company of gleeful children. This is exactly what unfolded during a lovely farm photo shoot with two sisters, making for an unforgettable spring session surrounded by nature and farm animals.

Love the goat posing for us perfectly.

The Magic of Farm Sessions in South Jersey

The magic that unfolds during a farm session in South Jersey is unlike anything else. As a photographer deeply rooted in this serene part of New Jersey, I've been privileged to witness the countless ways the rural landscape can transform an ordinary photo shoot into something truly extraordinary. The magic, I've found, lies not just in the visually stunning backdrops but in the stories that naturally emerge amidst the sprawling fields and under the canopy of peach orchard blossoms.

Here, every session starts with the promise of discovery. As the sun begins its ascent, casting a soft, diffused light across the land, the farm awakens, offering a canvas so vibrant and alive that each photograph becomes a masterpiece. The dew on the grass reflects the morning light, and the peach orchards, brimming with blossoms, provide a dreamlike setting where children's laughter echoes, blending seamlessly with the sounds of nature.

The beauty of farm sessions here is further enhanced by the spontaneous moments that seem to find us. Whether it's the gentle nuzzle of a farm animal, the curious glance of a child at a butterfly, or the warm embrace of sisters lost in a moment of joy, these are the instances that define the essence of our work. The natural setting encourages freedom, exploration, and genuine emotion, allowing for candid shots that capture the spirit and personality of each subject.

As the day unfolds, the light shifts, painting the sky in hues of gold and pink, enveloping the farm in an ethereal glow. It's during these golden hours that the true magic of South Jersey's landscape reveals itself, transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary. The farm becomes a stage, and the subjects, immersed in the beauty around them, play their part effortlessly, leaving behind a trail of unforgettable memories captured through the lens.

In these moments, surrounded by the natural splendor of South Jersey, the connection to the land, the animals, and to each other becomes palpable. It's here, among the peach orchard blossoms and the rolling fields, that the magic of farm sessions is truly alive.

Mini donkey having fun.

Planning Made Simple for Busy Parents

In my role as a photographer in South Jersey, I've grown acutely aware of the bustling lives that parents lead. It's a dance of schedules, responsibilities, and fleeting moments that they wish to hold onto forever. Recognizing this, I've tailored my approach to farm photo shoots to ease the burden of planning, creating a seamless and enjoyable experience from start to finish.

The essence of simplifying this process begins with open communication and flexibility. I work around your busy lifestyle to find the perfect time for your farm session, ensuring we catch the farm in its best light while accommodating your family's schedule. The beauty of South Jersey's farms, with their natural decor and ambient lighting, means that we're halfway there before we even begin.

Prior to the day of the shoot, I provide a concise guide on what to wear, what to bring, and what to expect. This preparation allows you to arrive at the session with peace of mind, knowing that all has been taken care of. And, while the idea of corralling your children for photos might seem daunting, rest assured that the farm's open space and engaging surroundings naturally encourage children to explore and express themselves, making for genuine and candid photographs.

Incorporating elements like farm animals into your session is handled with ease. I coordinate with the farm to ensure a smooth interaction between your children and the animals, enriching your family's experience without adding to your to-do list. The aim is to craft an environment where precious moments unfold naturally, without the need for forced smiles or posed awkwardness.

From the moment you decide a farm session is right for you, my goal is to lift the weight of planning from your shoulders. By handling the logistics, coordinating with the farm, and guiding you through preparation, I strive to create an experience that feels as effortless as the beautiful, candid shots we're set to capture. Your role is simply to be present, enjoying the fleeting moments with your children, while I preserve them for a lifetime.

The mini donkey is the star of the show. He’s even smiling!

A Day with the Sisters Among Peach Blossoms

Our farm session adventure with the two sisters unfolded on a crisp, spring morning in South Jersey, a time when the peach orchards are in their full glory, cloaked in delicate blossoms. From the moment these young explorers stepped into the orchard, their spirits seemed to lift, intertwining with the serene beauty around us. Clad in their ethereal dresses, they became part of the landscape, embodying the essence of spring itself.

Navigating through the orchard, I stayed a few steps behind, camera in hand, ready to capture the unfolding magic. Their interactions were effortless and genuine—a game of chase here, a moment of quiet wonder there as they admired the peach blossoms, their faces alight with curiosity and joy. It was as if the orchard, with its fragrant air and soft petals, had cast a spell, inviting the girls into a world where only beauty and laughter existed.

Kiddos just being kids and having fun.

What struck me most were the moments of spontaneous affection between the sisters. A gentle hand holding as they walked, or a spontaneous hug amidst the blossoms. These are the instances that speak volumes, the unscripted expressions of sisterhood that are fleeting yet profound.

Amid the backdrop of the peach orchard, their energy was contagious. Their laughter seemed to mingle with the whispers of the trees, creating a melody that echoed the pure bliss of childhood. It was a photographer's dream, capturing the natural, uninhibited joy of youth against such a picturesque setting. Each shot felt like a pause button on these swiftly passing moments, offering a glimpse into the purity and innocence of their young lives.

This day among the peach blossoms was a reminder of the magic that can be found in the simplest settings. It wasn’t just about the photos; it was about creating an experience—a memory—that these sisters would look back on fondly, long after the blossoms had faded.

Down on the farm in the peach orchard with a pony.

Incorporating Animals for That Extra Spark

Incorporating the gentle nature of farm animals into our photo sessions brings a dimension of wonder and spontaneity that beautifully complements the innocence and curiosity of childhood. On the day of the shoot with the two sisters, their interaction with the farm's animals turned what was already a picturesque scene into a series of unforgettable moments. There's a certain magic that happens when children and animals come together, a kind of unspoken communication that transcends words and results in pure, unadulterated joy.

As we ventured through the farm, each encounter with the animals seemed to open up a new world for the girls. The soft wool of a lamb, the curious peck of a chick, or the slow, steady gaze of a horse, all these interactions became focal points of fascination and laughter. It's these spontaneous, genuine interactions that I strive to capture, moments that reveal the heartwarming bond between children and nature.

One particularly touching scene unfolded as the younger sister gently cradled a chick in her hands, her eyes wide with wonder. The protective yet curious look on her face, coupled with the delicate way she handled the small creature, spoke volumes about the gentle interaction between child and animal. Her older sister, meanwhile, found a companion in a friendly lamb, her laughter ringing clear as it followed her around.

It’s in these interactions that the essence of a farm session truly shines through. The animals, with their calm and curious dispositions, invite the children into their world, allowing for a natural exploration of empathy and gentle curiosity. These moments, when captured, not only add an extra spark to the session but also create heartwarming narratives that families cherish. Witnessing the gentle unfolding of these connections, and being able to preserve them through my lens, underscores the unique beauty of incorporating animals into our farm photo shoots.

I love this shot.

The Importance of Capturing These Fleeting Moments

In my years behind the lens, I’ve come to appreciate the profound significance of capturing moments that seem to slip through our fingers like grains of sand. Children grow and change with a swiftness that leaves us breathless, making it all the more vital to seize these fleeting instances of childhood with as much care and attention as we can muster. Each farm session, including the enchanting day spent with two sisters in the peach orchards of South Jersey, underscores the importance of preserving these ephemeral slices of life.

The joy of childhood, with its uninhibited laughter and wide-eyed wonder, is a marvel to behold, yet it's heartbreakingly transient. As they interact with their surroundings, whether marveling at the delicate texture of a peach blossom or engaging with the gentle curiosity of farm animals, children reveal their purest selves. These moments, though fleeting, speak volumes about their burgeoning personalities, their sense of wonder, and their capacity for joy. My role, as I see it, is to capture these unguarded expressions, these spontaneous outbursts of laughter and moments of awe, providing a window back to these priceless memories.

Photographs act as a bridge between the past and the present, enabling us to revisit and cherish times that have long since passed. They remind us of the rapid pace at which life moves and the precious nature of childhood. Through my camera, I strive to hold onto these moments, creating a visual narrative that families can look back on with fondness and nostalgia. It's not just about taking pictures; it’s about capturing the essence of the fleeting moments that define childhood, ensuring they're remembered and treasured long after they’ve passed.

In essence, these farm sessions aren't merely about the pictures we take; they're a celebration of life, growth, and the fleeting beauty of childhood. They're a testament to the fact that, while we may not be able to stop time, we can capture its most precious moments, preserving them for generations to cherish.

Kitty is photo bombing our shoot. Little lady in wheelbarrow is holding a baby chick!

Final Thoughts and How to Book Your Farm Session

As I look back on the enchanting experience of capturing the essence of childhood among the peach orchards with two delightful sisters, it's clear that these farm sessions are imbued with a magic all their own. They offer a sanctuary from the relentless pace of our daily lives, an opportunity to forge lasting connections not just with the natural world around us, but with the very heart of our families. My dedication as a photographer lies not only in crafting beautiful images but in creating a space where genuine moments can unfold with ease.

This donkey princess is the star of the show!

Planning your farm session is designed to be as straightforward and stress-free as possible, recognizing the busy lives we all lead. My approach is to work hand-in-hand with you, ensuring that we choose a time that not only captures the farm in its most favorable light but also fits seamlessly into your schedule. The pastoral beauty of South Jersey, with its golden hours and vibrant landscapes, awaits to frame your family's moments of joy and exploration.

Had to get a final capture of the girls at sunset.

To begin the journey of capturing these fleeting moments of childhood and family bonds, reaching out is your first step. Share with me your visions, your preferred dates, and let me take care of the rest. From selecting the perfect setting amidst the farm animals or under the canopy of blossoms, to guiding you through each step of preparation, I am here to ensure that your experience is as memorable and enjoyable as the images we'll capture together.

Let's embrace the opportunity to tell your unique story through the lens, to freeze time in a way that allows you to relive these precious moments for years to come. Your family's adventure amidst the beauty of South Jersey's farms, with all its natural splendor and whimsy, is just a message away from becoming a treasured legacy.

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

Magical Unicorn Family Portrait Photographer in Delaware

Hi there, magical souls! I'm your whimsical guide and photographer in New Jersey, here to take you through an enchanting journey—a "mommy and me" styled unicorn photo session that will sprinkle your world with fairy dust! At Shooting Star Photography, we believe in capturing the precious moments you share with your little ones in the most dreamy way possible. So, saddle up on our unicorn, and let's gallop through the 20 steps to making your fairytale photo session come to life!

Dreaming Up Your Perfect Session

Alright, let's kick things off with a dash of imagination! Picture this: a world where soft pastels paint the sky, enchanting gardens sprawl at our feet, and a majestic unicorn awaits to join us. It's your turn to dream—what feelings do you want to capture in this magical realm? Is it the heartwarming bond, a spark of whimsy, or perhaps a touch of fantasy? Scribble down your dreams and share them with me. Together, we'll weave these dreams into the very fabric of your session, crafting an experience that's as magical as the tales we adore.

Choosing Your Magic Date

Once our fairy tale is envisioned, picking our magic date is next! I get it, life's busy—especially for you amazing parents juggling your wands and warrior shields daily. That's why we offer flexible scheduling to ensure our adventure doesn't add to the spell of chaos. Let's find a day where you can leave the hustle behind and step into a world of wonder with your little one, stress-free. Together, we'll make it a date that fits seamlessly into your epic saga.

Securing Your Spot with Shooting Star Photography

To ensure our magical journey together is officially on the books, reach out to us to secure your spot. A little bit of pixie dust (a simple booking deposit) guarantees that our unicorn is reserved just for you on your chosen day. We've made this process as effortless as possible because we believe nothing should stand in the way of your enchantment. So, let's lock in your date and start counting down to a day filled with laughter, love, and a touch of unicorn magic!

Planning Your Enchanted Outfits

Diving into your closet for our magical session is like opening a treasure chest—there are no wrong choices, only opportunities for enchantment! Imagine gowns that float like whispers on the wind and little crowns made of the finest forest finds. But remember, the real spell is comfort; we want you to dance with the unicorns, not wrestle with wardrobe mishaps. Let's pick outfits that let both of you shine in the ethereal light, embracing the whimsy and wonder of our journey together.

Location, Location, Magical Location

As a seasoned photographer in New Jersey, I've uncovered the most spellbinding spots, perfect for our unicorn-themed adventures. Imagine whimsical forests, shimmering lakes, and fields aglow with the golden hour's touch—these are just a few canvases for our storybook session. Together, we'll select a locale that not only breathes life into our magical tale but is also a breeze for you to reach. This ensures our session is nothing short of enchanting, leaving the real world behind the moment you step into our carefully chosen fairytale setting.

Meeting Your Unicorn

Before the sparkle of our photo shoot begins, you and your little dreamer will have a special moment to meet our star unicorn. This magical encounter is designed to sprinkle a bit of comfort and excitement into your hearts, making sure those genuine, joy-filled smiles come effortlessly when the camera starts clicking. It's a whimsical introduction that sets the stage for a photo session filled with laughter, love, and, of course, a little unicorn magic.

Personalizing Your Experience

Your fairy tale session is as unique as your family's story. Whether it’s weaving in a treasured family heirloom or featuring a favorite fairy tale book, we're all ears! Tell us your whimsical wishes or cherished memories you'd love to capture. This personal touch transforms your photo shoot into a magical narrative that's exclusively yours. Let’s collaborate to ensure every sparkle and smile reflects the genuine, magical bond you share.

Capturing the Magic in Delaware

When our photo shoot day arrives, it's our time to let the magic unfold naturally. I'll be there to gently guide you into sweet moments and capture those spontaneous bursts of joy and love. Forget about striking the perfect pose; it's the heartfelt giggles, the soft cuddles, and the playful twirls that we're truly after. These genuine, unscripted interactions are where the real enchantment lies, ready to be immortalized through my lens.

Sneak Peeks and Fairy Dust

While you're eagerly waiting for the full magical reveal, we’ll send you fluttering into excitement with a few sneak peeks of our enchanting time together. Think of it as a little fairy dust sprinkled in your inbox to give you a glimpse of the magic we captured. It’s just a taste of the wonder that’s to come, keeping the anticipation high and your heart fluttering with joy until the grand unveiling.

The Grand Reveal

And now, the moment that twinkles brighter than a constellation—our grand reveal! Imagine stepping into a space filled with the magical moments we captured, each photo a doorway back to our enchanting adventure. Your heart might skip a beat as you lay eyes on these memories, now immortalized. It’s here, amidst the joy and giggles frozen in time, that you’ll truly grasp the magic we’ve woven together. Get ready to relive the wonder and whisk yourself back to a realm where unicorns roam freely.

Selecting Your Favorites

Diving into our treasure chest of captured moments together, it's time for the enchanting task of selecting your favorites. Picture us, side by side, flipping through the magic of your day, each photo sparking memories and joy. I'm here to guide you, to help you spot those genuine glimmers of love and laughter that make your heart sing. This step is all about choosing the snapshots that tug at your heartstrings, ensuring the essence of your magical journey is captured just as you remember it.

Custom Products and Keepsakes

After our adventure together, it's time to bring the magic of our unicorn world into your home with custom products and keepsakes. From the sparkle in your eye captured on canvas to the joy of your little one's laughter bound in an heirloom album, we curate these treasures with all the love and enchantment of our session. It's about keeping the magic alive, letting it fill your spaces and hearts every day. Let’s turn these moments into tangible memories that dance through your life.

Designing Your Album

As we sit down to design your album, it's like we're casting a spell together, mixing and matching images to perfectly tell the story of our enchanting day. Flipping through the proofs, we'll choose layouts that complement the whimsy and warmth of each moment captured. From the cover that beckons a peek inside, to the magical scenes that unfold page by page, our collaboration brings your fairy tale to life, ensuring every glance brings a smile and a sprinkle of that day's magic.

Finalizing Your Order

With our magical day immortalized, it's time to dot the i's and cross the t's on your order. We'll breeze through the details together, making sure your cherished keepsakes are just as you've dreamed. This step is the wand wave that sets everything in motion, ensuring that soon, the enchantment of our day together will fill your home and hearts.

The Anticipation Builds

As we craft your enchanting keepsakes, think of it like a potion brewing - each detail being perfected with care. The thrill of what's to come dances through the air, a prelude to the joy that will soon fill your home. With every update we send, imagine a sprinkle of fairy dust, heightening the excitement for the magical reveal. It's a delightful waiting game where dreams become tangible treasures, soon to be in your hands.

Delivery Day

Oh, happy day! Your enchanting keepsakes have journeyed through the mystical lands and have finally arrived. Envision the excitement as you unwrap these treasures, each piece a portal back to our whimsical adventure. It's like the final chapter of our fairy tale unfolding right in your living room, ready to be cherished and relived. As you open the package, the magic of our day together bursts forth, ready to fill your home with joy and wonder.

Sharing the Magic

Now comes the enchanting moment of spreading the wonder far and wide. Imagine your home coming alive as you place each piece of our magical day on display, or the smiles that light up faces as you share our captured moments online. We're thrilled to see how you keep the magic alive in your world. Don't forget to tag us—your happiness in showcasing these memories is the spark that fuels our creative journey. Let the magic we created together inspire stories and dreams in every corner it touches.

Creating Lasting Memories

Each photograph we capture is a shimmering droplet of time, forever preserving the laughter, the hugs, and the magic shared between you and your little one. These aren't just pictures; they're your family's legacy, embossed with the joy and enchantment of your unique journey. As you flip through these images years from now, you'll be transported back, feeling every giggle and whisper of fairy dust as if no time has passed at all.

Planning Your Next Adventure

Oh, the joy doesn't have to stop here! Picture this: as seasons change or new milestones arise, we're here, ready with our camera and a sprinkle of creativity to embark on your next magical chapter. Be it celebrating a birthday, welcoming a new family member, or just because—our doors are always open for your return. Think of us as your family's personal storytellers, eagerly awaiting to capture your evolving fairy tale.

Staying Connected with Shooting Star Photography

Don't be a stranger after our magical journey together! Dive into our social media galaxy and hit follow for a sprinkle of joy in your daily scroll. Sign up for our newsletter, where we share not just photography tips but also peeks into our latest enchanting adventures. By joining the Shooting Star Photography family, you're not just staying updated; you're keeping the magic alive and well in your heart and home. Let’s keep weaving wonderful stories together!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

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.

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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.