Magic, Magic, Everywhere!

It's been a magical spring! All these blooms.. From cherry blossoms, dogwoods, tulip trees.. right down to tulips and daffodils. Color and blooms are exploding with life. One thing I have been enjoying mostly are the cherry blossoms! I can't wait to post some sneak peaks for everyone! They are truly beautiful and lovely!!! One thing I love to create, is magic. I love creating magic for every single client that comes my way. Below, examples of some of this magic and capabilities and these were taken over two years ago!!! It's amazing what you can do in the forest on a cold winter day.. to add color to the trees and as long as you have great light... magic can truly happen!    This time of year, I truly enjoy seeing the dead come to life.. We had a very cold winter and pretty cold spring considering years past. It's pretty incredible to drive around and see the blooming trees and life coming around full circle! Spring greens are coming in! The light changes to a more warm light... the sun sets at a later time (now we're at around 7:45pm).  This is the light I live for. I love it! I wanted to say bye bye to winter and HELLO SPRING SESSIONS IN SOUTH JERSEY!!! Can't wait to share the new work and meet new clients that have signed up for sessions this year! It's going to be a fantastic 2018 and I am extremely excited!!!! Happy Shooting, my friends! Dee

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.  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!  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       

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!

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!

Twirling on the beach is always so much fun!

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!

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

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

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

Brother and sister photo shoot in Sea Isle, NJ.

Twirling on the beaches of Sea Isle, NJ.

beach boys photo shoot in Sea Isle.

 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.

The most magical beach sessions in New Jersey!

Jersey Shore Beach Photographer

A portrait session at the Jersey Shore captures the unique blend of serene beauty and vibrant energy that defines this coastal region. As the sun dips low over the horizon, casting a golden hue across the sandy beaches, every moment becomes infused with a touch of magic. The sound of crashing waves provides a soothing backdrop, while the salty breeze carries with it a sense of freedom and adventure.

Against this picturesque backdrop, individuals and families come together to freeze time and create lasting memories. The photographer expertly frames each shot, preserving not just smiles and poses, but also the genuine emotions that emerge when loved ones gather in such a captivating setting.

The Jersey Shore's charm lies in its ability to evoke nostalgia for carefree days gone by, while simultaneously inspiring hope for tomorrow's possibilities. In this fleeting moment during the portrait session, all worries seem to melt away, leaving only the joy of being present amidst such natural beauty.

Whether it's a candid shot of children playing in the surf or a tender embrace between partners against a painted sky, each photograph tells a story of connection, love, and the enduring magic found at the Jersey Shore.

Magical beach moments in Sea Isle City, New Jersey.

Playing in the ocean at Ocean City, New Jersey.

Brother and sister moment in Wildwood, NJ.

At Townsend’s inlet in Sea Isle. Kids just playing in the sand.

Cape May bay side. Beautiful sunsets can be found here.

Sea Isle City, Wildwood, and Ocean City are all fantastic choices for family beach sessions. These beach towns offer a perfect combination of stunning natural beauty and a wide range of family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking to capture playful moments in the sand, stunning sunsets by the ocean, or simply create lasting memories with your loved ones, these destinations have it all.

Sea Isle City is known for its pristine white sandy beaches, rolling dunes, and beautiful ocean views. It provides the perfect backdrop for timeless family portraits. With its laid-back atmosphere and smaller crowds, Sea Isle City offers a peaceful and relaxed environment, allowing families to truly connect with each other. The picturesque bayfront area also provides an opportunity for unique and diverse photo opportunities.

Wildwood, on the other hand, is famous for its vibrant boardwalk and amusement parks. It's a hub of family-friendly activities, making it an ideal spot for capturing fun and dynamic moments. From riding the thrilling roller coasters to playing mini-golf or indulging in delicious treats at the various boardwalk eateries, Wildwood offers endless entertainment for all ages.

The colorful boardwalk lights and lively atmosphere add a touch of excitement and playfulness to any family beach session.

Ocean City, known as "America's Greatest Family Resort," lives up to its reputation with its inviting beaches and plethora of family-oriented attractions. Its well-maintained boardwalk is perfect for capturing candid shots of families strolling along, ice cream cones in hand. The expansive beaches also provide ample space for children to build sandcastles, fly kites, or play beach games, ensuring that the whole family can have fun while creating beautiful memories.

All three destinations offer a wide range of beachfront accommodation options, making it convenient and comfortable for families to enjoy their beach sessions. They also boast a variety of local shops and restaurants, allowing families to extend their beach sessions by exploring these charming coastal towns.

Whether you prefer a serene and intimate atmosphere, a lively and adventurous experience, or a combination of both, Sea Isle City, Wildwood, and Ocean City have something to offer every family. These locations are guaranteed to provide breathtaking backdrops for your family beach session, ensuring that you will have cherished photographs to treasure for a lifetime.

The Jersey shore can give many varieties of looks for any type of beach shoot.

 I LOVE the beach and would say this is the type of photography I thrive in. I believe my work stands out from the rest in regards to beach photography.  I have scoured beaches from Central Jersey down to the shores of Cape May.. to the Delaware Bay to offer my clients the BEST and most private beach locations in the industry and area. It's the work that I tend to get known for and win awards for. The pastel colors and skies... the light.. I am quite particular when it comes to my work and the lighting situations that I like to use for my clients. 

I am all about giving my best so that my customers have photographs that they will cherish for decades to come.  There's something quite special about beach photography. Maybe it's the wind.. the waves.. the calmness.. the light. Most folks, seem to be transformed and more relaxed for these types of sessions. Perhaps, it's the feet dipping into the soft Jersey sand. It's odd that we have different colored sand from beautiful white and soft.. to more tan or river mud in the area, depending on the ecology and area of New Jersey. 

I love coordinating colors that will just pop at the beach. I love color and you'll see this a lot in the work I provide. Most photographers, tend to blow out their highlights because they aren't too familiar with beach photography or their lighting. You'll see flash being used at midday. For me, that's unacceptable. I understand that flash is used to help balance out the harsh shadows from the sun of the beach and understand WHY sometimes it is used.

Maybe for certain nap times for the little ones and the reason why needs to be taken at this time... but for me lighting is important. I want soft beautiful light and there's a method to my madness. In regards to the locations I use and my lighting choices. If you would like to book your Southern Jersey beach session for 2018, I recommend so shortly! We only offer a limited amount of beach sessions per year and they are sold out every time!I would love to capture these beautiful moments for you!   

Happy Shooting, my friend!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

Unicorn Sessions-Photography is EASY. Not.

Unicorn magical sessions in south Jersey

Unicorn photography is a unique and specialized skill that requires a keen eye, creativity, and technical expertise. Capturing the enchanting essence of these mythical creatures demands the ability to harness and enhance their mystique through the lens. Unicorn photography requires a deep understanding of lighting, composition, and perspective to bring out the ethereal beauty in each shot. The responsibility lies in the photographer's hands to emphasize the magical qualities of the unicorn while capturing their grace and allure. To possess the skill of unicorn photography is to possess the power to transport viewers into a world where dreams come alive, igniting a sense of wonder and awe that only these majestic creatures can awaken.

Photography is simple everyone can do it.

I am going to explain to you in rich and lavish detail.. It is not. In fact, it's been one of my hardest jobs of my life. It's time to get a little personal and about business here! :)

First off, I got into photography while running a travel blog many moons ago. I worked in corporate America previously. You can google me if you want, you'll see me pop up in a few news articles and probably see the books have written. Bleh bleh bleh.. right? I am boring you. Hold on!

I LOVED taking photos. Didn't know much about light and would just snap this, that, and the air. It honestly didn't matter. I didn't edit them either. I just loved it. For me, it was the thrill of exploring that particular place or landscape and taking a picture as a token that I've been there.

Well... out plops my son and then my daughter. At this point, I decided to flip tables, change things up a bit and to photograph them. These important moments because they change SO FAST were important for me to capture. So like many photographers, I got into portrait photography because of them.

This little lady enjoed being photographed with her puppy the unicorn.

Again... easy peasy, right? Hold your horses, will ya?

I started taking photos and learning my camera settings. Learning about light. Lots of trial and error. Friends saw these photographs and wanted their pictures done. Now, at this time... I thought I was dabomb.com. I wasn't. I was terrible. I'm now doing some of my friend's photographs and thinking hmmm.. this is easy maybe I should start a business....

And I did. Decided to incorporate my business in February of 2015. At this time, I STILL thought I was awesome. 

There were no clients. It was crickets. I'm like oh $45 is too expensive... let me lower them to $35 and give a ton of images. I continued to blog and at this point is when things got busy for me. I was taking workshops and learning online. I was building my lens collection. My work was starting to get noticed.

Then things got super busy. So by end of fall season.. I am practically ripping my hair out. $100 sessions (yep, raised them from those whopping $35 sessions) and I am spending 2 hours on one photograph editing. A total waste of time and resources. Time away from my own kiddos she family. It was awful. At this time, I continued to book like crazy and am virtually winging it and going day by day.

So tax time comes around... and this was my ah ha moment. Seeing how much money owed and realizing I wasn't charging enough to even make minimum wage and that I technically wasted so much of my time for PENNIES. I was seriously working for PENNIES and this was the second year. The numbers don't lie.

The first year, was even worse I was basically paying myself to work. I put the family virtually in debt because always wanted the latest and greatest shiniest things. You eventually realize you don't need those things.

We always need to get a nice pet in too. With our beautiful unicorns.

So come 2017... those few years have learned and learned well. I had to make a decision to either start making a profit... or I need to quit.

What I am trying to say is this. There are so many folks that end up burned out in this business. They have no real plan. They love what they do, but they often lack on the business side. They have no business plan m or marketing set in motion. They lack motivation because it can be a frustrating and very confusing start.

Now, one thing with myself. I am a go getter. I always had a plan. My plan wasn't enough when I started.I was super busy and was afraid to raise my pricing to where I should be priced at with my talent and worth.

I made it a point to offer a full session experience this year. Offering high end custom made gowns for my company.

We also tackled on limited series sessions. Such as unicorns, mermaids and princess castle sessions. Because I was so busy.... I ended up hiring my mom to come onboard full time to be my assistant. I love working with my mom. Not many daughters can say this and I'm sure would love the opportunity to work with your own mom.

I noticed office work starting slugging behind. When that happens, customer service starts to slip... so have had to hire an office manager to keep things running smoothly, so that we can provide our customers with the service they expect and honestly the best. We don't like offering anything less than the best...asWe are completely full service.

So... for now and going forward we have a concrete plan. I have a team at my disposal to insure I give my clients the best and they are your team, too. We have your back.

This is not an easy job, I work 24/7 at every waking hour to make my business better. No one told me going into this, that I would spend most of my time on the business end and not shooting/editing. A huge misconception most photographers have getting into this.

What I am saying is if you want a well-organized and run photography business. That will WOW you from beginning to end in the Philly area.. you've found it. We're right here. We're not going anywhere. We've only just started!