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.

LOVE seeing my client's work displayed in their homes!

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I truly love seeing my South Jersey and Philadelphia area clients... my "art work" displayed in their homes. It honestly makes me want to print out more of my own family's, as it's something I don't particularly do myself and I know it's something my own kids like to see displayed in my own household. So when I see others do it, print out my work, it truly makes me smile from ear to ear.

There's nothing more awesome and gives you a sense of pride to see your work displayed and for my clients to WANT to put up in the walls of their home.

Here's a beautiful family that I have worked with over the years. I LOVE them so much. It's an honor EVERY TIME I GET TO PHOTOGRAPH THEM. The connection and love they have for one another is absolutely wonderful.

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Beautiful beach session canvas, hung on client's wall!!!

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Beautiful peony sessions that I offer every single year to my clients. Located in South Jersey!

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As you can see, it's an honor to work with this beautiful family! I get to see them next week! Very excited to see them again!

If you would like to book a session with us, we have a few spots left for our 2020 year! We would love to see you! Once again, we will be in our studio in Maple Shade, New Jersey... effective November 1st! Stop on in and say hi!!!!

Until our next adventure and happy shooting!
Dee

Shooting Star Photography

South Jersey's most awesome family photographer

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Vintage Pop Shop Photography Sessions- Cape May, New Jersey

Vintage Pop Shop Photography Sessions- Cape May, New Jersey

Vintage Vibes at Stewart's Root Beer Restaurant

Ahhh. Last year... (before covid struck down on us hard) we had some gorgeous pop shop vintage sessions in gorgeous Cape May, New Jersey! THESE WERE SOLD OUT WITHIN MINUTES, but I guess you can see why!

These were absolutely soooo much fun to do. All of my clients dressed to the NINES and it definitely showed on camera. Our shoot took place at my friend's shop, Stewart's Root Beer in downtown Cape May, New Jersey. It was a former bank building, converted into the vintage pop shop that you see on camera.

Vintage Vibes at Stewart's Root Beer Restaurant

Ahhh. Last year... (before covid struck down on us hard) we had some gorgeous pop shop vintage sessions in gorgeous Cape May, New Jersey! THESE WERE SOLD OUT WITHIN MINUTES, but I guess you can see why!

These were absolutely soooo much fun to do. All of my clients dressed to the NINES and it definitely showed on camera. Our shoot took place at my friend's shop, Stewart's Root Beer in downtown Cape May, New Jersey. It was a former bank building, converted into the vintage pop shop that you see on camera.

For these types of sessions, it's all about vintage charm. Whether you want to channel the 40's, 50's, 60's, 70's and beyond. It's just an awesome way to capture some memories while enjoying an old-fashioned root beer float, milkshake or banana split!

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With its nostalgic charm and delicious root beer floats, this unique setting provided the perfect backdrop for capturing timeless moments.
As soon as we entered Stewart's Root Beer Restaurant, we were instantly transported back in time. The vintage decor, classic booths, and old-fashioned jukebox created an atmosphere brimming with nostalgia. The walls adorned with retro signs, black and white photographs, and vintage memorabilia made it a photographer's dream come true.


The session was designed to evoke a sense of joy and nostalgia, much like stepping into a bygone era. We carefully curated the outfits and props to reflect the personality and style of our clients, ensuring that the essence of the vintage era was captured beautifully in every shot.


The shoot began with the clients sitting at one of the iconic booths, sipping on frosty root beer floats while sharing playful banter and laughter. The soft glow of the pendant lights above added a touch of warmth to the scene, creating an intimate ambiance that truly showcased the authentic vintage feel.


We then took the clients on a stroll around the restaurant, carefully capturing candid shots of them engaged in conversations, enjoying the jukebox music, and indulging in their favorite treats. The aroma of freshly made hamburgers, onion rings, and fries filled the air, adding an extra layer of sensory delight to the experience.


The charm of Cape May's downtown area spilled onto the streets as we ventured outside for a few outdoor shots. The quaint storefronts, cobblestone streets, and beautiful architecture served as a picturesque backdrop, enhancing the vintage aesthetic of the session.


Throughout the shoot, we skillfully framed each shot, capturing the romance and nostalgia that lingered in the air. The resulting photographs were a stunning fusion of timeless elegance and modern storytelling, perfectly encapsulating the clients' spirit and the essence of the vintage pop shop session at Stewart's Root Beer Restaurant.


We are immensely proud to have been a part of this unique experience, collaborating with our clients to preserve their memories in a way that will transport them back to this remarkable time and place. Our vintage pop shop session at Stewart's Root Beer Restaurant in downtown Cape May, NJ was truly a captivating journey into the past, allowing us to merge the best of old and new, and creating visual stories that will be cherished for generations to come.


If you're looking to capture the magic of another era, don't hesitate to reach out to Shooting Star Photography LLC. Our talented team is passionate about creating memorable experiences and delivering exceptional photography results that truly stand the test of time.

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Ahhh. Last year... (before covid struck down on us hard) we had some gorgeous pop shop vintage sessions in gorgeous Cape May, New Jersey! THESE WERE SOLD OUT WITHIN MINUTES, but I guess you can see why!

These were absolutely soooo much fun to do. All of my clients dressed to the NINES and it definitely showed on camera. Our shoot took place at my friend's shop, Stewart's Root Beer in downtown Cape May, New Jersey. It was a former bank building, converted into the vintage pop shop that you see on camera.

For these types of sessions, it's all about vintage charm. Whether you want to channel the 40's, 50's, 60's, 70's and beyond. It's just an awesome way to capture some memories while enjoying an old-fashioned root beer float, milkshake or banana split!

A little pop shop vintage fun with one of the families I get to see every year! Taken in beautiful Cape May, New Jersey. Stewart's Root Beer Restaurant!

As we get squared away with our new studio, in beautiful Maple Shade, New Jersey, I will have to add more sessions daily. That's my goal. To get this website and and going and to show all the beautiful work and families we have had throughout the years. More sessions to show and to come!

This is what I truly love to capture. Families and kids in their element having a wonderful time. Being in the moment. Happy natural smiles. Enjoying a nice treat at a vintage little pop shop! Don't you just love the vintage styling mom put them in? It looks great with the soda shop counter and old time coca cola fridge!

Come on out and let us have some fun South Jersey! We are always having such great fun and creating unique sessions to boot! WE LOVE OUR CUSTOMERS!

Until we meet again and happy shooting! Dee Giumetti

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Life's Too Short... So Life Needs Unicorns!

Life's too short... so life truly needs unicorns!

 Unicorn sessions are a lot of work around here. They require a ton of time in preparation for things to go and run smoothly. Especially, with working with a live animal and to keep costs down for most since you have to rent the unicorn.. we have limited time to work with during these sessions.   Coordinating dresses, unicorn sashes horns.. We try and compliment to the season/theme/dresses/crowns! Every single unicorn session we do is unique in its own right. We're truly perfectionists! Our goal is to make every kid feel special, to truly make this a MAGICAL UNICORN EXPERIENCE for each and every child.You'll see whimsy and wonder.. and lots of cheer and laughs during these sessions. Most are surprised to see how friendly our unicorn is. A true gentle giant "unicorn." She's incredible in her own right. Miss Snowy... I can't imagine working with another unicorn.. because once you find something so special, you keep hold of it.South Jersey unicorn sessions, south jersey photographers, jersey shore photographers  My motto lately is...Life's too short to even care at all. The popular song by Young The Giants-Cough Syrup. There's reasoning and meaning to this. Life's too short to sweat the small things. I am learning this day by day... I have realized these past few weeks that somethings are truly out of my control and am learning to try and let it go because I am sooo hard on myself. I have always been. I love giving 100% to everything.  My mother who is the other half to this business and my partner has been ill. So everything has fallen on me. We're busy. We have deadlines to make and clients sessions to fulfill. I always say that success is 90% of just showing up. It is. That's why even though have not been home this past week... whether at the hospital or with sessions with customers, I haven't given up. I got this. I CAN DO THIS. I've done it before and I may be solo for a bit. That's also OKAY.  A client of mine has been absolutely wonderful in helping and helped to step up to the plate for mini sessions. When it comes to full sessions, I can manage from here on out as I did this when I started. I AM TRULY grateful for the amazing community of support.. so that I can continue to keep going and keeping putting my best foot forward out there.Also, take a little whirl below at a cute sister session magical experience! NOT TOO BAD for JANUARY sessions. We got blessed with some pretty mild weather! South jersey family photographer, philadelphia unicorn sessions, philadelphia photographerssouth jersey photographers, photographers in south jersey, new jersey photographers, unicorn sessionsmagical unicorn sessions, south jersey unicorn sessions, family sessions south jerseysouth jersey photographers, photographers in south jersey, photographers in delaware county pennsylvaniaunicorn sessions new jersey, new jersey photographer, south jersey photographerssister sessions, magical winter sessions, south jersey photographers, salem county photoraphersphotographers in south jersey, photographers in woodstown nj, photographers in new jerseyWinter photographer sessions, south jersey photographer, photographers in south jerseysouth jersey photographers, photographers in south jersey, unicorn sessions new jersey Depending on how mom does with her recovery and how these next few weeks go.. Our goal is to try and get another unicorn going by MAY. I truly appreciate your patience! We have had a lot of sessions pushed back because of blooms and weather this year.. and of course these customers are our first priority and obligation! However, stay tuned for another magnificent experience!!! Happy Shooting, Dee       

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THIS IS A CRAZY INDUSTRY- KEEP YOUR HEAD UP

Shooting Star Photography South Jersey Photographer   

BE THE CHANGE IN WHAT THIS INDUSTRY NEEDS.

 

I understand art is subjective. However, as artists we are continually critiqued. Some things invoke feeling… unpleasant or pleasant. There is a certain level where one must develop a tough skin… in order to thrive in this business. You need to realize that you won’t always be everyone’s cup of tea. 

 

When it comes to my own work and personality… I laugh at myself ALL THE TIME. It’s just how I am. I laugh at others, I laugh with others. It’s never really mean-spirited. I have so much to grow and if I post something… I want you to laugh. I want you to feel something. It’s okay to laugh at me. I can take it. Among friends, we laugh at each other. You have to laugh in this business.

 

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INVEST IN GOOD MENTORS.

What I am trying to say is this isn’t kindergarten folks.  If you are new to this industry… latch onto folks who will build you up. RUN YOUR BUSINESSES PROFESSIONALLY. Treat customers right. Don’t play mind games. Don’t bully and learn to take critique with a grain of salt. However, sometimes in that critique is where you learn to do better. I listen to feedback from my customers all the time, as I truly do want their experience to be one of a kind.

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Hire mentors that will help lift you up and not bring you down.. That want to see you continually improve and get better. If you are new and see this sort of behavior… learn to walk away and surround yourself with better teachers and mentors.  Follow positive folks. People who uplift others and not knock them down.

And most importantly.. never ever apologize for being YOU. Be the voice of change in this industry. I hope my little me… can eventually do that.. Help this industry to be better… because right now… it’s a sad state of affairs. However, it’s time to be the voice of change and invest in those who are there to help you grow as artists.

 Light your pathway, fill up your heart and passion. Keep doing you.

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New Jersey Beach Sessions almost sold out!

New Jersey Beach Sessions almost sold out!

New Jersey Shore Beach Photographer

At Shooting Star Photography LLC, we are fortunate to call the stunning coast of Ocean City, NJ our summer home. From the picturesque shores of Margate to the tranquil beauty of Sea Isle and the vibrant charm of Wildwood, we are privileged to capture timeless memories through our lens from May to September. Check out the photographs below of all our coast cities that we see every single summer!

New Jersey Shore Beach Photographer

At Shooting Star Photography LLC, we are fortunate to call the stunning coast of Ocean City, NJ our summer home. From the picturesque shores of Margate to the tranquil beauty of Sea Isle and the vibrant charm of Wildwood, we are privileged to capture timeless memories through our lens from May to September. Check out the photographs below of all our coast cities that we see every single summer!


As with each summer, we eagerly await the opportunity to photograph beach sessions at the beloved Jersey Shore. As the golden sun bathes the coastline in a warm glow and the soothing sound of waves provides the perfect backdrop, we strive to create breathtaking photographs that embody the essence of summer bliss.
From candid moments of laughter and joy to serene portraits against the backdrop of endless ocean horizons, we wholeheartedly embrace the unique character of each beach town to create a diverse and captivating collection of images for our clients.


Whether it's a family gathering, a romantic couple's shoot, or a fun-filled session with friends, we are committed to preserving the unforgettable moments and emotions that unfold along the Jersey Shore. Our passion for storytelling through photography drives us to craft timeless and evocative images that seamlessly blend the natural beauty of the coast with the genuine connections shared by those we photograph.
For those who seek to encapsulate the magic of a Jersey Shore summer, we invite you to join us as we embark on an unforgettable journey of capturing the essence of coastal living through our lens.


Hey there, beach-loving families!


Gather up your loved ones, bring along your beach towels and sunglasses, and let's create beautiful memories against the backdrop of the sun, sand, and waves. Whether you're looking for candid shots, playful moments, or classic family portraits, we've got you covered. Now, let’s go party!


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Twirling on the beach is always so much fun!

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Brother and sister photo shoot in Wildwood, NJ.

The bond between a brother and sister is truly special, and capturing it against the stunning backdrop of Wildwood was a magical experience.
Keep sharing your special moments with us, and if you ever need our photography services, don't hesitate to reach out. We'd be honored to help you capture more beautiful memories.

I’m ready to rock and roll… as it is that time of year again when things start to pick up and get busy! This year am offering a bunch of fantastic and great things coming your way! Our beach sessions for the year are almost at FULL capacity.. so if you are looking to do a beach session this year, I highly suggest we lock in you in ASAP. Our fall sessions are starting to book up as well!  

What we include in your family beach session at the Jersey Shore:

  • Access to our boutique wardrobe. For beach sessions, we typically use tutu du monde styles or dollcake as they fall into the color line that we like to use for portraiture. We also have some outfits for boys and dresses for mom. However, you are free to wear whatever you like at your session. We do recommend for family sessions to arrive dressed and if have time at the end, we can get you changed!

  • Online proofing gallery: After out session, we upload all the images from your session.. these will include every single photo taken.. so you can choose between 200-400 images... Most clients love this as there are "no missing photographs."  These are the good, the bad and the ugly from our session!  Please allow 48-72 hours for proofing gallery to be sent to you!

  • Turn around once photos are chosen and completed for album is typically two weeks. All photographs are edited in our "signature work and style." Beach photography is one of our favorites to do and our specialty and we have changed our policies this year to offer a complete customer experience!

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I love blues on the beaches of New Jersey! This was taken in Ocean City, NJ.

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Mint works well against a purple sky and sunset! This was Sea Isle!

Maternity Photo Session In Ocean City, NJ. I loved this session!

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Brother and sister photo shoot in Sea Isle, NJ.

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Twirling on the beaches of Sea Isle, NJ.

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 In terms of our locations, we have scouted everywhere (since we have lived here our whole lives) from the Delaware bay.. to Asbury Park, New Jersey, Long Beach Island,  down to Tuckerton area, Atlantic City, Ocean City, Margate, Stone Harbor, Sea Isle, Wildwood and down to Cape May! We are all about great beach light and locations definitely play a role in this factor!   As you can see we really LOVE beach photography and we will be posting photographs and work shortly! We have about two years of work to get up here on our South Jersey blog!!!Whether it is a family session, extended family session, or just want to get portraits of the kids... We are here for you! 

Until our next adventure, my friends! 

Dee

Owner of Shooting Star PhotographySouth Jersey and Philadelphia photographer.

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