My Photography Session Prep Sheet and Style Guide

The Importance of Prepping for Your Photo Shoot

Prepping for your photo shoot is crucial for ensuring that you achieve the best results and have a smooth, stress-free session. Here are several reasons why prepping is essential:

1. Clarity of Vision

Prepping helps you clarify your vision for the photo shoot. It allows you to define the style, mood, and overall look you want to achieve, which guides all other aspects of the shoot.

2. Logistics and Coordination

Proper preparation ensures that all logistical details are taken care of, such as securing the location, obtaining permits if needed, arranging for hair and makeup, and coordinating with the photography team.

3. Time Management

Prepping helps in managing time effectively. When all the elements are well-planned, it minimizes downtime during the shoot, making the most of the available time and maximizing productivity.

4. Comfort and Confidence

Being well-prepared helps everyone involved in the shoot feel more comfortable and confident. Whether it's the model, the photographer, or the entire crew, knowing that everything is organized helps reduce stress and fosters a more relaxed, creative atmosphere.

5. Equipment Readiness

Preparing includes ensuring that all equipment is in working order, charged, and packed. This minimizes the risk of technical issues disrupting the shoot and allows for seamless transitions between different shots.

6. Creative Direction

A well-prepped shoot allows for more focus on the creative direction. With logistics and technical details taken care of, there's more mental and emotional space to explore and experiment with different poses, angles, and expressions, resulting in more dynamic and compelling photographs.

Yep, things are changing around here. I am a picky photographer. I have to be. This is my livelihood and honestly, I want folks to get the very best out of their session when working with me!  It's good to be picky! I am a bit of a snob when it comes to light too. I love light and I have strict standards to when I like to shoot outdoors to give the very best and to put you in the best light... NO PUN INTENDED.Here's my general guide... Yes, it's long... but you want the best in the Philadelphia and New Jersey region, right? 

Shooting Star Photography Styled Session Prep Sheet

Since I am offering stylized sessions, this is a great list of information on prepping you with your photo shoot with Shooting Star Photography.

Maternity Preparation

I bring about 3 gowns for you to choose from.  Please no flip flops as they do not photograph well. Closed toe shoes, boots, going barefoot, or neutral colored sandals are preferred and photograph the best.I will also bring some headpieces to choose from.  Please wear your hair to your liking. I prefer hair down either straight or curly.

Undergarments

Please bring nude boy shorts or underwear.  Preferably a nude strapless bra or nude bra in general.  I do not provide these items due to hygienic purposes.

Makeup

Please keep makeup as simple as possible. Dark/heavy makeup do not mix well for outdoor portraits as you will be moving around and will probably sweat a little.Please bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated. We include immediate family (if you have other children) and the father in the beginning of your session so please plan your outfit accordingly.  Towards the end, we will ask you to change and do some formal shots with the father and then the formals of yourself. We will have an assistant on hand to help you with whatever you need.

Children's Prep Sheet

At this time, I only have dresses and gowns for girls ages 1-14. We do have a few boy's items. Please inquire.We pull about 3 items for a half hour shoot and about 5-7 items for an hour shoot. We currently do not provide a current list of dresses in our inventory. We do like to freshly cycle them so that we aren't photographing the same dress all the time.Please arrive 15 minutes early so that we may dress you in a wardrobe prior to the start of your session.Make sure child is wearing neutral undergarments. Is clean. Trust me, I know how kids can be. I have two myself. Also, check for any boogers.  I know it's gross yes, but editing out boogers is no fun either.Please bring a few pairs of dress shoes as we do not provide this for our clients. Preferably, white, silver, gold, black or neutrals as they can go with anything.Makeup, I do not recommended makeup on any child as I like them to be children. I do not alter appearances as other photographers do and will not alter a child's appearance other than skin correction.We also have a wide arrangement of headpieces to choose from.

I will not liquify ribs, alter ears, eyes, give nose jobs or slim a child. Under NO CIRCUMSTANCE WHATSOEVER. I want your child to have a fun experience and feel like a princess.  They will be treated as one!Please bring some water and snacks so that we can take breaks throughout the session and your child can take a few moments for themselves.

Family Sessions

At this time we do not have a full inventory to style an entire family session. However, we can provide you with some great tips.Attention to detail is everything, including socks! Especially for men, we can see your socks in certain posing placements. Also, please keep phones out of pockets and hair ands off of wrists.  We will also do a quick check before we start our session.Wear neutral colors, pastels or jeweled tones. Prints are okay, but nothing too loud.Textures film well. So if you have silks, chiffons, feathers, tulle, these are great choices to wear on camera!As above, no heavy makeup.

Keep it light and fresh. Bring some snacks and drinks for the kids and please make sure they are well-rested prior to their session.You can always shoot me a text or email, if undecided in a wardrobe selection. We are here to help!Wardrobe selection,  as well as light, are the two most important roles in your photographs.  Believe it or not, location plays the third role, not first. Please trust me on locations that I provide.

FYI, You will probably think I am showing up like a bum to your session. I normally wear tights, boots and either a blouse or sweater. You will see me mostly rolling around in  the dirt (yes, I am very dirty after each session) or you will be seeing me trampling through mud. I take this job very seriously for my clients! My assistant is usually in much more presentable attire. Please don't judge me.

Now Time For The Fun!

All sessions will take place about an hour to an hour and a half prior to sunset. On particular beaches, we may start about a half hour prior to sunset and work with the light when it has set. No exceptions. I am very strict when I shoot because I like to provide my clients with the best!I do not double book days.  I only do one session per day, which is why it is very important to pay your retainer and lock in the date you want. As dates book up quickly, even weekdays.

In the case of inclement weather, we will reschedule and if we are unable to reschedule, you will receive your retainer back.I hope

I have provided you with a great list going forward! I am a bit picky, but this is why people choose me. These are memories you will have forever and attention to every detail is very important to me!Please feel free to reach out with any other questions!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Spring in South Jersey: A Season of Renewal

As the warm sun rises higher in the sky, South Jersey comes alive with the vibrant colors and sweet scents of spring. The arrival of spring heralds the awakening of nature from its winter slumber, transforming the landscape into a picturesque tapestry of blooming flowers, lush greenery, and clear blue skies.
The cherry blossoms in Haddonfield, the tulip fields in Hammonton, and the daffodil gardens in Vineland burst into a riot of color, drawing locals and visitors alike to witness nature's magnificent display. With the gentle breeze carrying the fragrance of blossoms and the chorus of birdsong filling the air, South Jersey becomes a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.

As a photographer at Shooting Star Photography LLC, I am captivated by the ethereal beauty of spring in South Jersey. It offers a myriad of opportunities to capture the essence of this season of renewal. From the tender buds unfurling against a backdrop of clear blue skies to the delicate dance of butterflies and bees among the blossoms, there is no shortage of awe-inspiring moments to preserve through the lens.

Walking through the verdant landscapes and quaint townships, I am inspired by the sense of new beginnings that permeates the atmosphere. The picturesque settings provide the perfect backdrop for capturing the joy and vitality that spring brings to the region. Whether it's a family frolicking in a field of wildflowers or a couple strolling hand in hand along a tree-lined path, the beauty of spring in South Jersey lends itself to creating timeless and evocative photographs.

Spring in South Jersey is more than just a change in the weather—it's a celebration of life, beauty, and the promise of new beginnings. As the natural world comes alive with color, light, and energy, I look forward to capturing the essence of this enchanting season through my lens, preserving fleeting moments that encapsulate the spirit of spring in all its glory.

Oh... my.... goodness!!!  The weather has been FANTASTIC lately. For March, it has been pretty mild! EEEEEEK!!!! The magnolias have bloomed earlier than normal.. I have a terraced garden and it's truly incredible to look out at what is in bloom.  The narcissus, magnolia, white willow, magnolias, hellebores, hyacinths and periwinkle giving me a beautiful dance right now. It's like winter's hibernation is finally over and spring is officially here!!! It's new beginnings for me this year and am treading on different waters. I am starting off fresh and offering something very different to the entire Philadelphia area... STYLIZED SESSIONS!!!! Yes, you got that right!

Stylized Sessions To The Spring Mix

Why waste money on something you may only wear once or twice?  I bring a great selection of gowns with me to every single session in your size and time permitting, you can slip on anything you like. My house is starting to look more like a boutique, haha! I want you to feel like a million buckaroos!!! I am so happy to be able to provide this to all my clients!  I want my clients to feel and look beautiful as this is will be a very special memory that I will be capturing for a lifetime.Currently, I am offering clothing/dresses for all girls ages 2-14.  I have a variety of different styles and colors.  ALL MATERNITY SESSIONS ARE STYLED.  I have just started purchasing gowns for women (so please inquire, I MAY have your size) and boys.  I have a few suits, ties, suspenders, hats. I will eventually have some pieces for men. I also provide headpieces in beautiful chiffons, silk, lace, crowns, feathers and everything in between!!! My goal is to provide a luxuriant service to all my customers!  From start to finish!

This is why we've only been in business for a year and have had clients return 4 or 5 times! We LOVE them! and guess what? I love you, too!

New Photography Locations!

On the horizon are unique session offerings. I will be offering sessions in azalea, lavender, daylily, sunflower and gladiola fields.  Unfortunately, the peonies and cherry blossoms have been sold out this year!  But... maybe again for next year? However, I have hundreds of scouted locations (including some private properties that I have available). We will do our best to give you what you want!!! I think in my next posting, I might show a little of the dresses I have accumulated! I think you will fall in love! I have over 30 more dresses coming in and a few special order princess crowns!How we work is... you tell us your size or sizes needed... and I bring a hand-picked selection for you to choose from. I also bring headpieces!

You can have as many wardrobe changes within your session time period. I want you to enjoy your experience. I also bring an assistant with me to give you the best we have to offer!  This assistant helps with getting smiles, helping you dress, watching for any fly away hairs, getting you a drink, if you need it... They are here to help!!! 

We've also opened up to servicing Delaware (love me some Delaware, it's actually not the far from me), the Philadelphia metro market and even central Jersey this year!!! YES!!! We will come to you!

 Well... I look forward to hearing from you soon!  Thank you for stopping by and happy shooting, my friends!!!

Dee Giumetti

A Day With Meg Bitton- Behind the Scenes Workshop

Meg Bitton, with her extensive experience and unique artistic vision held a workshop in the winter to elevate her students and their journey into this business. It is a tough business to navigate. However, if looking to expand on knowledge or just getting into the photography business, I do recommend having a portrait session with her.

I am providing some of the inspiration from Meg Bitton’s in-person workshop.

Styling is very important to set the mood for your images.

This was Meg’s sweater used to make beautiful images. Meaning you just need great light and a great subject! Notice the backlighting.

Sweet angel.

Capturing the light.

Every photographer has a dream photographer that they look up to and want to meet one day. Usually, this person is one with years of experience and has taken the world by storm.  One with a reputation to teach and make their students better than they were before. That one photographer for me was Meg Bitton.  Ever since I got into photography and her work mesmerized me through the screen, I instantly fell in love with her soft and elegant style. It truly spoke to me.  I looked at her work and said... I MUST learn from her one day.Last year, was tremendous growing pains for me. I worked hard to where I am today. I took class after class and my work keeps improving with every session that I complete.

 I saw Meg had a simple and affordable Winter's Light workshop and I jumped at the chance to finally learn from her!Funny enough the day of her workshop, my SUV was having issues and warning lights came on. I was not going to miss this class so I called my mom, who thankfully resides in the next town over, and explained to her what happened and she graciously let me borrow her vehicle for the day.I took the semi-short journey of about 2 hour and 2o minute drive up to her North Jersey location and arrived early. I did not want to miss a minute.

As I saw other photographers pull up, I saw that they too were nervous to meet one of their photography idols, as I was. Within the first few minutes I felt at ease, although I could cut the room with a knife because I could sense the nervousness oozing out from each and everyone of us and what in the hay we were going to expect as this day moved forward.

 A lot of folks have put Meg on a pedestal, but Meg showed us she is human and one of the girls, like all of us. She wore her sunglasses and just kicked back on her plush sectional in her cozy workshop. We each got to discuss why we were there.  Meg has been a photographer all her life.  I respect that about her. She's gone through the ups and downs of this business and now presently dealing with the new digital age. She has perfected her craft. However, she never stops learning. We all should never stop learning.When we were finished with our talk, we ventured out to the nearby woods and this is when I fell in love with Anna Triant's dresses and Meg herself.  

The way she takes over with just her camera and her subject. Right then and there, I was inspired. Right then and there, things clicked for me. Right then and there... I thought to myself.... this is what I needed to see. She helped show folks how to find good light and was very interactive throughout the entire aspect of shooting. I got to speak with the moms of the models as Meg uses them often in her work. I saw the pride they had for their daughters and with having another day with Meg. I complimented how well these girls were at what they do and told them how happy they must be.

Everyone I spoke to was down to earth and so open. Even the girls I went to the workshop with. In fact, I've become friends with one of the girls from the workshop and we've gotten together since!We headed back to her studio and this is where we could ask any questions about the day and we sat in awe as she uploaded her pictures and showed us how she would edit them.  

After, we sat around and discussed business matters and finalized our day of questions so we could return home.When I left that day, I had a high. I sang and blasted the radio up in the car for my semi-long journey home and couldn't wait until I could put into use what Meg taught me. Meg taught me these things... To be me, that my style is good!!! And to keep going with it!To stylize my sessions and that clothing/wardrobe plays a vital role in photography.

The way you are dressed, can MAKE or BREAK your photographs because of this, this is why the change this year of my business in stylizing for girls and will be stylizing for boys, men and women going forward. I was already stylizing my maternity sessions.To find light-  Honestly, I was good at finding it before and with the locations I utilize, but Meg really makes you pay attention to it...  She showed us the way... and how to get the BEST out of our images!The next day after the workshop, I had a session.  From that session, I published TWO photographs. I owe that to Meg as I've tried for the last year to get published with Inspire and could never get published. From then and there, business has taken off and more images have been published.She made me realize that I deserve the best, I deserve to respect myself and do what I love to do and to not take every client on that waves money at me..

To only take on what I want to take on and it's okay to go with only your vision and your gut and to follow your passion. To be honest, by the time of Meg's workshop. I was burned out from the fall. I worked non-stop from August to November with only 2 days off. I had sessions every day except those two days. I was exhausted and was starting to hate photography.  She sparked that again in me.

This year, has been many changes, but for the good. I value myself and I have worked hard to get to the skill level that I've always wanted to be at. I'm always learning. Every single day, I learn something new and that will never stop. However, I have grown by leaps and bounds in one year's time in which it takes other photographers 5 or more years to achieve.I guess this is my public thank you to Meg herself for letting me find myself. I don't want to be Meg, I do have my own style, but I am inspired by her and her work. I look forward to learning from more greats this year.

 I just finished a webinar with Katie Andelman, a weekend workshop with SallyKate and Lemmonmade Photography is coming up this April, a workshop with the great Elena Shimilova this September and again, I will get to see Meg Bitton with Sandra Bianco this year.  I loved what Meg has taught me and I feel forever blessed.  I signed up for a monthly editing webinar for a year with her, after the workshop to keep myself fresh from all that I have been taught by her! I have a feeling this is going to be one helluva year in growth and learning. And also a great year for my business.

Happy Shooting, my friends!!! 

Best,Dee 

P.S.  If you have any doubt in doing a Meg Bitton workshop... just do it. Hopefully, it will spark something within yourself too!  I now look at everything differently, from my subjects, to giving better direction and how to get the very best out of them with the locations I use!!Thank you, Meg!!! See you in September!!!         

What a crazy 2015!

Reflecting on the End of 2015: A Photography Adventure

As we bid farewell to 2015, it's the perfect time to reflect on the exhilarating photography journey we've embarked on throughout the year. From capturing breathtaking landscapes to freezing moments of pure joy in stunning portraits, our lenses have been witness to countless precious memories and remarkable scenes.
The year 2015 has taken us to new heights and allowed us to push the boundaries of creativity in our photography. We've braved the elements to immortalize the raw beauty of nature, and we've celebrated the genuine emotions and connections that bring our subjects to life. Our dedication to the craft has been unwavering, and the results have been nothing short of extraordinary.

Our photography adventure in 2015 has not just been about capturing images; it's been about freezing moments in time that encapsulate the essence of life itself. Each click of the shutter has been a testament to our passion for storytelling through photography, and we've embraced every opportunity to craft compelling visual narratives.
As we revel in the memories of the photography adventures that defined 2015, let's raise our cameras high and toast to the countless moments we've immortalized, the lessons we've learned, and the unbounded creativity that has fueled our passion. Here's to the end of 2015, a year that has been nothing short of a thrilling, inspiring, and unforgettable photography adventure.

2015 Season in Review of Clients! This fall was incredible!

beautiful ballerina

February of 2015, is when Shooting Star Photography officially opened its doors, here in South Jersey.  It has been an absolutely incredible year of personal growth as well as business growth. I would have never imagined that it would have taken off the way it has.  I've worked HARD.  VERY HARD.  I finished the year with 212 sessions... and even with a wedding on New Year's Eve.  This was suppose to be a part time business. Something to keep me busy and do something I love.  I worked way to much... So I have decided going forward a few things.  A few changes for 2016.

This means not taking on as many sessions as I did this past year. I owe it to myself to have a life and to spend time with my family. I've been married to this computer and going to and planning sessions. It has consumed my life and I want to live it. I want to spend time with my kids and see them grow. They are only 4 and 1 and I feel like I have missed so much this past year. Unfortunately, time you cannot get back!

Our Goal Going Forward List Of Changes

 I am going to work less.

My goal going forward is that I am only going to take on 8 sessions MAX per month and my next few months are already filling up fast.  Having less sessions means less time away, a quicker turnaround time and pure happiness in my part. I won't be married to my computer editing every night or staying up until 3am. I'm exhausted.

2.  I am only going to do what I LOVE to do.

I'll explain. Of course, I have the motto that the customer is always right and I do pride myself in customer service and for providing beautiful images for my clients.  However, if there is something that doesn't fit with what I do.. or what represents my portfolio. I won't do it. This means cake smashes.  I honestly don't like to do them. They get messy.  Cake ends up all over the place. It ruins props, my clothing, everything essentially and it's not something I enjoy doing.

My vision from the beginning was to offer stylized sessions and this is what I am doing going forward. I've invested in some VERY EXPENSIVE handmade high-end gowns. Example:  Anna Triant Couture as one of the vendors I am using. My motto has always been subject and environment.   I like myself, my subject and my environment... That's it.  I'm not a big prop person, nor ever was.  I am all about my subject and that's the vision, I am going to go forward with. I'm not into banners, I'm not into cheesy props so if this is something you want. Unfortunately, I am not the right person for you.

I've learned to say NO this past year.  I don't just take any customer on and it's been that way from the get go. Most of my customers and (I love them dearly.)  Have returned time and time again. As I mentioned above, I haven't even been in business for a calendar year yet and I've had customers come back 4 times already. That right there should show you something.  Customer service and providing an incredible experience is truly what we pride ourselves on. 

3.  Focusing on a Specialty

I will be focusing on a specialty. This means no weddings and no events, no newborns, no cake smashes.  I am specializing in maternity photography, children's photography, family photography and engagement.  This is it. This is what I love to do. As I continue to go forward, I might end up narrowing it down even more. 

 4.  Happy Me= Happy Clients

This is true. This past summer I was busy and then I went right into the fall season never really able to catch-up.  I took too many customers on and I essentially burned out.  I'm truly exhausted. I was even having to turn people away because I knew my workload would be too much.  I'm not going to kill myself and have specific cutoff's for certain dates. For example, to ensure Christmas delivery, I will have a cutoff no later than October 10th. I am going to set clear exceptions.. ( I already have, but even more in detail). 

5.  The Experience

Going forward, I don't want folks to walk away with only beautiful images. I want them to enjoy their entire experience. I have hired an assistant to help things run more smoothly.  It's nice to have that help when you are out and about with your clients. I want my clients to be happy and I want them to feel absolutely beautiful. From initial contact, to location, to the final product. It's about the experience for me.

6.  New Market AreaWe will be marketing to the Philadelphia metro area, Chester and Delaware Counties, the state of Delaware, Bucks County, the Mainline and even to Princeton and surrounding areas.Basically, these are my top 6 things/changes for this calendar year. I haven't gone crazy with the pricing. Nor even increased pricing.

Conclusion and New Year

My one hour standard package is still at $270.  I would consider myself still affordable to my clients with what I have to offer. I hope everyone has an incredible 2016.  I am very excited. We will be having sessions in Peony fields, among the cherry blossoms, lavender, gladiolas, sunflowers and daylilies.... even a tree farm.. We have secured some pretty awesome locations, here in South Jersey and couldn't be more excited.  

We can't wait to move forward and to meet new people!!!

Happy Shooting, my friends!!! Let's make 2016 awesome!!!  

It's really going to be a blast!!! 

-Dee   

Our photography Anniversary! Coming up on a year since started portfolio building!

Celebrating One Year of Capturing Memories!

It's hard to believe that we're already celebrating our one-year anniversary at Shooting Star Photography LLC! Over the past year, we've had the honor of capturing countless precious moments, from joyful weddings to heartwarming family portraits.

The first family session we ever did. It was on October 11th 2014.

Celebrate our First- Year Anniversary!

On October 11th, 2014, Shooting Star Photography LLC embarked on its first official photo shoot, capturing beautiful moments for a lovely family. Since then, our journey has been nothing short of inspiring. Over the past year, we have tirelessly dedicated ourselves to expanding our skills, knowledge, and experience in the realm of photography. Through ongoing education and numerous practical experiences, we have refined our craft and developed a deeper understanding of our clients' needs. Furthermore, our growth has allowed us the incredible opportunity to meet and connect with the wonderful community of South Jersey. It has been an incredible journey, and we look forward to many more years of capturing cherished memories and expanding our horizons.

This above October date will always be remembered.  It hasn't even been a year yet and I'm forever grateful!  I've come tremendously far.  When I look back,  I look at this image and say... okay, that's not TOO Bad.. I see where I could've improved. I've spent a ton of money on equipment this year... I've added about eleven lenses to the collection, two new camera bodies, lighting, backdrops, props, software, education, insurance and the list goes on! It's incredible what can be done in an entire year and to even see your style change from this to what I have currently.

The families I've worked with, the moms to be, the children.. they all have special meaning to me and I am blessed to have been a part of it.  Blessed to have been given the opportunity to capture photos that families will hold dear for generations to come. Photos that mom and dad can look back on and see their little babies... and see how much they've grown today.I'm extremely excited for what lies ahead.  I'm now booked out through December with limited openings in between and can't believe I've been able to accomplish this since February 2015 when the business was incorporated

Below, is a collage of all the images we’ve taken over the past year. 

Can’t believe it has been a whole year being a in business! Thank you so much!

The Year Ahead

For this fall 2015, I have a lot planned. I am attending a workshop in Florida for a few days, to get better and will be working with a photographer who specializes in maternity photography (which is the avenue I am pursuing as a specialty in South Jersey), I will be creating designed sets, clothing and purchasing maternity gowns.  Basically, I am going all out and giving it my all!I will continue on with editing education.  I'm always trying to improve myself and get better! I have spent a ton of money on education and it's been my most valued asset!  I hardly ever use presets or actions for my photographs and that I'm blessed with!There are many photographers who rely on these and I don't!  I'm going to continue with my vibrant and bokehlicious edits and hope to keep looking ahead!!!I guess I should say... thanks for making this a great year... but it hasn't even been a year yet!! Haha! Look out South Jersey! Here I come!!! Can't wait to see what is ahead and to meet some interesting people while enjoying this incredible journey!! 

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee