Fine Art Family Photography Stories & Resources
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.
Explore Portrait Experiences:
Shooting Star Photography- In South Jersey... General Facts
Shooting Star Photography- In South Jersey... General Facts
Here at Shooting Star, in South Jersey, we are here to provide you the best service available in our general area. We offer the most superb and most unique scouted locations for your photo shoot, as well as a private in-home or outdoor garden studio! Yup, we have an amazing outdoor studio... with thousands of flowering
Here at Shooting Star, in South Jersey, we are here to provide you the best service available in our general area. We offer the most superb and most unique scouted locations for your photo shoot, as well as a private in-home or outdoor garden studio! Yup, we have an amazing outdoor studio... with thousands of flowering perennials! You'll have to see it for yourself!Here are some fun facts, so you can get to know us better!
General Facts
1. Where is Shooting Star located?
We are located in South Jersey, Woodstown to be exact. A lot of folks think this is far away... However, I am only about 15-20 minutes away from Deptford and Camden County. I am a short drive from most places in South Jersey, due to our location in the state. We are located near most major highways, like 295, 55 and the turnpike.
However, not to worry! We will come to you!
2.What is Shooting Star's booking requirements?
We require just a $20 retainer to hold your spot. The rest can be paid at the time of your session. We do this to protect both client and photographer. Most photographers ask for more, however, we ask for this small retainer as good faith that you will arrive to your session.
3. Is Shooting Star a legal business?
Absolutely! We are registered as a LLC with the state of New Jersey, we pay sales tax every quarter and are licensed to operate and insured business.
4. How Do I Pay For My Session or Product?
We accept Visa or MasterCard, or cash and will invoice you accordingly.
5.Do you allow pets?
Yes! Please just give us a heads up! However, in my family sessions, we have had a few dogs. Dogs and pets are family too!We may even provide them with a little treat, if only they behave (I'm sure they will)! We also do Pet Photography. In our studio or any location you prefer!
6.What is the best time of day for a session?
Generally, the rule of thumb for photographers is what we call "Golden Hour" this is 2-3 hours prior to sunset, depending on the season or time of the year.
However, I have shot many of sessions in midday sun and I am experienced in this regard. I can adapt to any situation or condition. It's why I am a called a professional photographer.
7.What do I wear for my session?
Wear something that is nice, yet casual. Your hiney may get a little wet depending on the location or what poses you want... You may also get a little dirty! It's all up to you and what you want! I have some pdf files on what to wear. However, coordinating, but not matchy matchy colors always look great! Don't be afraid of color or prints, either! Pick one outfit and build around that, if it's a family shoot. You'll create something FABULOUS trust me!
8.Where do we go for our session?
We can go anywhere you like! It depends on the style you are looking for. However, I have hundreds of scouted locations in my repertoire, from vacant lots, to barn-styled, nature, sunset, and even beautiful beach locations! Tell me what you want and I will make it happen! If there is a place of meaning or of value to you, or to your family... let us know! We're always up for something new!
9. What is your traveling fee?
I will travel up to 40 miles from the vicinity of my home. After that, I charge $0.50 per mile. In the grand scheme of things, it comes out to just a few bucks!
10. How long will it take for me to receive my photos?
I often have the photos finished in less than a week! When finished, they are uploaded to a private high-resolution gallery for you to see them or to download! In my contract, it states that it can take up to 3 weeks, but this is usually in effect for the busy season. I have never had to go to 3 weeks even in busy season. The most anyone has ever had to wait was about 7 days.
My turnaround time is important and apart of my customer service!
11.Do you give refunds?
Since this is a service I provide and I am retained for this service and for that chosen day. I do not offer refunds. However, I only charge a $20 retainer fee out of good faith. This will not be returned. However, returns are at the discretion of myself, depending on the circumstances.
12.What if we have to reschedule for personal issues or weather?
Safety is my number one priority when it pertains to clients! I will contact the client in the case of bad weather and we will discuss our options. You must reschedule your photo session within 2 weeks of cancelling the session due to personal conflicts, or for bad weather.
Hopefully, I was able to address any questions you may have down the line. If I haven't, you know how to reach me!
Happy Shooting, my friends!
-Dee
Black and White Photographs Of ALL My Families From 2014!
Introducing the Timeless Art of Black and White Photography
Black and white photography holds a special place in the hearts of photographers and art enthusiasts alike. It captures a unique essence, drawing attention to the raw emotions, contrast, and depth within each image. Harnessing the power of monochrome, we are thrilled to present you with an opportunity to explore this timeless art form.
Cute black and white capture of the little baby shoes.
Last year, I started up Shooting Star Photography as a legal business. My launch date was on October 11, 2014. I ended last year with over 23 sessions. For just starting out in this business, those aren't too bad of numbers. I specialize in mainly family photography with folks from all over South Jersey and I wanted to showcase them all here... in last year's highly popular black and white matte. Some of the families were shot at our studio and others on location. Hope you enjoy this nice little collection. I had such a great time working with every single one of them. I walked away learning more and more and gradually improving (which is what I aim to do). Best of all, I love working with kids and as you see in this photographs, that I work with animals too. Not every session I had been families, so I did not include them here.
Introducing the Timeless Art of Black and White Photography
At Shooting Star Photography LLC, we continuously strive to enhance our services and bring you the most exceptional experiences in the world of photography. We are delighted to announce the addition of a captivating new offering: black and white photography.
Black and white photography holds a special place in the hearts of photographers and art enthusiasts alike. It captures a unique essence, drawing attention to the raw emotions, contrast, and depth within each image. Harnessing the power of monochrome, we are thrilled to present you with an opportunity to explore this timeless art form.
As masters of our craft, we understand that not every moment is meant to be captured in vivid color. Some instances beg to be told in shadows and highlights, in the masterful play of light and darkness. From portraits and landscapes to special events and candid moments, black and white photography brings a new dimension to your cherished memories.
With the inclusion of black and white photography, we aim to provide you with a wider range of creative possibilities. Our talented photographers have honed their skills in capturing the subtle nuances of this art form, ensuring that your black and white images will be nothing short of breathtaking.
Whether you are looking to add a touch of elegance to your family portraits, create a classic album to commemorate your wedding day, or desire a unique artistic expression for a personal project, our black and white photography services are tailored to meet your individual needs.
We invite you to immerse yourself in the intricacies of black and white imagery and let Shooting Star Photography LLC capture the essence of your most cherished moments. Our team is dedicated to providing you with an unforgettable experience that goes beyond the ordinary.
As the holiday season approaches, consider booking a black and white photography session to capture the warmth and joy that this time of year brings. Our skilled photographers will transform your memories into heirlooms, evoking a sense of timeless beauty that can be treasured for generations.
To inquire about our black and white photography services or to schedule a session, please reach out to our dedicated customer service team. Our representatives are eager to assist you and answer any questions you may have.
Thank you for choosing Shooting Star Photography LLC as your trusted partner in capturing life's most precious moments. We look forward to embarking on this exciting journey through black and white photography together.
Warmest regards,
Dee
Shooting Star Photography LLC
Black and white photo at the Pop Shop in Collingswood, New Jersey.
This photography journey has been a true blessing. I am meeting people from all walks of life and putting smiles on faces. That's all I am aiming to do. I love providing a service from start to finish and take great pride in doing this! I have BIG plans for this year and have invested in new equipment. I have also been taking classes during the winter downtime (as is common in this industry, this is the slow season.) I'm really excited for what 2015 is going to bring and what it has brought thus far. I will be holding family mini-sessions at secret locations in every county of South Jersey this year. We will also have a mini or two at the Jersey shore. I know many wonderful locations as part of owning southjerseyexplorer.com I can't wait to show what I have to offer! Plus, also show my improvement and willingness to learn!Photography is a journey. People who have been in the business for over 20 years are still learning. I hope to be a student for as long as I can. This is a true passion of mine, whether it is related to portraiture or landscapes!
Well... Hope to see you or "shoot" you soon!
Happy Shooting! -Dee
Keep Taking Photographs Of Your Kids... You'll be a pro or semi-pro... in no time!
I learn a little more everyday and in hopes to improve. Anywho, I'm getting off subject! I'm telling you moms and dads out there to try and make the effort of learning photography and taking better photographs of your kids. Learn how to shoot in manual mode (you will thank me). Read your camera manual over and over again until it sticks in that noggin of yours! Trust me, you do not need a fancy camera! That is all bull in this industry.
There is nothing more freer than taking photos of your own children! I paid over $150 just for photos, no print release... Nada... for when my daughter was born. Btw, the photographer for my son never came around at the hospital like they were suppose to... And that saddens me. His whole large 11 pounds and all!
Yup, he was that big when he was born. I adore being able to take photographs of my kids professionally. I use them for many subjects and practice, but it's also very cool that I can take quality level photographs of all my kid's milestones. I truly feel free in that sense. I know I would have racked up thousands of dollars in photos thus far, if I did not do my studying when it pertained to taking photos of my kids. I always loved photography, even from when I was a little girl.
My mind works in mysterious ways with textures, lighting and just how I see this world. In fact, my very popular sister blog to this site... Well, I show South Jersey, how I see it...Its beauty and all. I've been so lucky in this endeavor because I know all the best shooting locations from Burlington County to Cape May County!
I'm a bit nuts when it comes to photos. I like high quality. I have invested in a ton of equipment in such a short time frame because of it, but now I feel like it is paying off. I see the work for when I first started and then I see now and it has only been a few months. I see a huge improvement. It's just in my nature to be the biggest and best. I aim to be in the top my field in regards to photography one day. It is just me and how I'm wired.
I learn a little more everyday and in hopes to improve. Anywho, I'm getting off subject! I'm telling you moms and dads out there to try and make the effort of learning photography and taking better photographs of your kids. Learn how to shoot in manual mode (you will thank me). Read your camera manual over and over again until it sticks in that noggin of yours! Trust me, you do not need a fancy camera! That is all bull in this industry.
It is seriously the person who is behind it! I have a drive to learn and I always have. I'm so happy to capture the milestones of childhood with my kids in a professional way. I urge folks out there to put down their camera phones and pick up a semi-decent camera to capture these moments! You don't need to spend a lot of money, you just have to have a desire to learn.
Happy Shooting, my friends! -Dee
Photography Classes in South Jersey
Even if you have a point and shoot, you can learn to take better photographs! I started out in landscape photography and just recently, have been getting into portraiture. I've published two books on my landscape photography while exploring South Jersey.I will show you how to care for your camera investment and the basics to truly keep you motivated! I know some cameras can be intimidating, but after one "class" with me, you will see that it isn't so intimidating!
I know many folks have just received a nice, new, and shiny camera for Christmas, or as a birthday present and don't know how to use it! If you are looking to take better photos, to get into manual mode, or just take better pictures of your children and grandchildren, you've come to the right place!I have been offering classes, in South Jersey, for quite some time now.
I will provide you with the training and most importantly, the confidence in going forward in your photography journey.I have been a photographer for years and my work has been showcased all over South Jersey.
Even if you have a point and shoot, you can learn to take better photographs! I started out in landscape photography and just recently, have been getting into portraiture. I've published two books on my landscape photography while exploring South Jersey.I will show you how to care for your camera investment and the basics to truly keep you motivated! I know some cameras can be intimidating, but after one "class" with me, you will see that it isn't so intimidating!
I will also give you some valuable keepsakes that you can use as a resource to learn even more!I will be offering group classes in where we go out on an adventure and take photographs of beautiful buildings, landscapes. or people throughout South Jersey. Plus, this is a great opportunity to meet other hobbyists that are into the same interests and want to learn!You will learn about lighting, exposure, technique, and general composition in how it applies in photography.
Plus, you will learn your camera!
Classes will be forming shortly! It will be a fun experience for all! We will get to explore something new and to learn how to photograph!
Happy Shooting, my friends!
Dee
Shooting Star Photography
NJ portrait photographer
Pet Photography
Taking photos of your pets can be a challenge. Here are some tips and tricks to getting some great poses, even from the most wild of pets!
Pet photography is something that I've been wanting to get into for some time now. I absolutely adore animals! Big, small, furry and fun! Bring it on! I had a little companion at the studio the other day and well, we enjoyed the nice break from the cold weather. It was a nice change of pace working with him, as I'm usually accustomed to humans!Here's a studio photograph of Bella, a Chihuahua.
Our recent session... Meet Cody.. the coolest Miniature Pinscher around! He was a ball. He wanted to play by the stream and chase the wildlife... typical dog! However, here are a few photographs from our session! I have a beautiful property and we just allowed him to be as he is! What a cutie patootie! Hope you enjoy!
