TOP 10 THINGS ON WHAT NOT TO WEAR/DO FOR YOUR SESSION

TOP 10 THINGS ON WHAT NOT TO WEAR/DO FOR YOUR SESSION

I may be opening up a can of worms here, maybe not, but I can't express how important it is to discuss what you will be wearing prior to your photo session with your photographer.  I want to explain why this is so important.What you wear is one of the most IMPORTANT aspects to your session.  What you wear is a huge aspect to what the overall composition will look like in regards to your final product.  People pay good money for their memories and certain things you wear can affect your session and your end product.Here are a few suggestions on... 

Check out the beautiful baby bump!

Momma to be maternity session in the cherry blossoms in Cherry Hill, NJ.

TOP 10 THINGS ON WHAT NOT TO WEAR/DO For your session

1.  No Flip Flops

I don't know what it is, but they just do not photograph well or look well in regards to a session.  Unless, it is a beach session, I see no need for them. I see a lot of maternity sessions ruined by flip flops with these beautiful fabric flowing gowns.  It does not look pretty! I see photographers trying to cover these flip flops up in editing with this flowing fabric because of this. Flip flops are great for the beach and great for hanging out with friends, but they honestly don't photograph well or look well on camera. 

2.  Consider where you will be getting your photographs done... and your location

Are you going to be getting photographed in a garden?  Well, don't wear green! There's a ton of green all around and well, you'll blend in like Waldo.  You want to wear something that will be complimentary to your surroundings.  Obviously, if you are being photographed in front of a red barn, you aren't going to be wearing red or a similar color.  You'll be lost!  You'll want to wear complimentary colors to your environment.  

With a garden scene, you'll want to wear light or natural clothing to blend in with the environment. Pastels also work well against greens. Obviously white or black clothing can be complimentary to almost any location.  However, if going for a vintage feel or more modern, consider what you will be wearing for that session and the look you are wanting to go for.

3.  Please, please, please... Do not show up with graphic tees with heavy wording on them.. It does not photograph well. 

4.  No sweat pants.

It's sad that I even have to mention that... but no one looks great photographed in sweatpants.  I couldn't even imagine beautiful Beyonce being photographed in them.  Just please don't!

5.  No Ripped or stained clothing.

Are these images you want to remember and see for the rest of your life? You want to show that pizza stain that you couldn't get out from a few weeks ago and decided to wear again.. go ahead!  I think folks don't get that the camera sees everything.  It sees things that the human eye can't see. Yes, if you think that stain is unnoticeable try again. It will be magnified by a hundred times on camera!

6. Wear clothes that fit.  

Please... I beg of you.If you are a size 10, but trying to fit into your much tighter size 8, it is not going to look pretty.  It will just magnify your back fat and any bulges, rolls you may have.  Take into consideration your bra, so that your bra line is not showing. These simple things go overlooked and people wonder why they look like a stuffed sausage or even bigger than they really are because they are not wearing the proper clothing.

7.  Heavy makeup.

 Heavy makeup does not photograph well.  You can still wear makeup, but try to make yourself look more natural and don't cake it on.

8.  Be cautious of wearing hairbands on wrists.

I've seen many of my photographer counterparts have to Photoshop it out.  It doesn't look pretty in the end result.

9.  Be Well-Groomed 

IF you do decide on wearing flip-flops (please don't), but if you do... make sure your feet are well-manicured. Make sure your nails are trimmed as well as  goatees/beards. Make sure you have no hair roots. If not taken care of, they are even more magnified on camera.

10.  No chewing gum, smoking (yep, folks do that).

Make sure you're bathed and the kids are bathed. You don't want dried snot on camera. It looks hideous. Mismatched socks.. hairy legs (especially women).  Just make sure you are well-groomed for your camera debut!  AND yes, unfortunately all these things happen! If you are spending your hard-earned money on having yourself photographed, please don't do the above.  Everything comes up like a microscrope when you are being photographed.

Talk to your photographer! They will help you decide on what is appropriate for your session.  We know what photographs well and doesn't, due to our experience in the field.  Trust us! Don't be shy with discussing it! We want to make this the best streamlined process ever. You can dress casually if this is the look you are going for, but remember pick your attire in good taste!  

If you search the net, you can find great color schemes and outfits to wear.  Especially, for a family session or a particular theme. If you want the best for your session, please don't do the above!  Obviously, you are the paying customer and can wear what you want.  However, there are some things that you should be aware of to make your photographs more beautiful! 

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee  

My absolute FAVORITE time of the year... Spring!

Spring has arrived, South Jersey!

 Isn't it just wonderful?! This was a very very cold winter!  It at times felt like it was not going to leave, but it did... and now everything is blooming away! For April, the weather has been rather blissful! Yes, we've had some rain, but the majority of days have been filled with sunshine!!  Throughout this text here, I am showcasing some photos I took recently in the Shooting Star Garden!

I hope you like and as always, it is an offering on a photo location to my clients!   I've been sooooo busy! I think I have a total of 16-17 sessions (I'd have to look in my planner) scheduled until June right now. I'd say for a new business to the area, that's a great start!  Every single day, I am working hard to improve myself and just get better. I hope to be a "shooting star" in 10 years and known worldwide.  Yup, that's my goal... and if you truly knew me, you'd know that this will happen, hahaha!  Anything I put my mind to, I have accomplished tenfold so I'm adding photography to medley.  I am looking to grow this business to one of the bests in the area!

If I'm not working or doing sessions, I'm investing my time in education,, spending time with my kids and well, spending time with my kids! They're also excellent models when I want to try something new!  Of course, as a mom I take pride in them too. Well, duh!   

Dogwood lovin Spring in South Jersey!

Weeping cherry blossom in background for spring photo shoot.

Garden baby and all smiles.

Boy having fun near the stream in Salem County, NJ.

Little boy having fun.

Little boy on a bench posing for a photograph.

Little girl in on the moss in the spring garden.

Checking out her boots and enjoying the garden.

Daffodils in Salem County, NJ. Coming to life.

Bleeding hearts blooming.

Weeping Cherry Blossom.

The grounds here at Shooting Star have been nothing but superb this spring.  Right now, the weeping cherry and magnolias are blooming, tulips, hellebore, grape hyacinths, standard hyacinths are blooming.  The daffodils are still in bloom.  We have hundreds of them EVERYWHERE.  All the perennials are rising to the surface... It's definitely spring!I actually saw a hummingbird trying to feed off of our cherry the other day! It was a great start to the season!! The Kwanzan cherries have popped open some blooms and should be fully alert in a day or two.  I love it! If I had to choose between my garden or photography, it would destroy me. Both are my absolute favorite hobbies.

 I could never decide between the two!These last few weeks, I've been taking the kids out to play in the garden and to try some new tricks on them!  They've also "helped" me a little to prepare it for this spring by cleaning out all the flower beds and weeds!  I am so blessed to have these gorgeous grounds.  It is a true oasis and right here in South Jersey!  Sometimes, I need to pinch myself because it is just so magical!  I love strolling through the grounds and walking down the terraces to the stream.  I find it to be my garden of Eden and I am so very blessed to be able to offer it to my customers for their photo sessions.  

My customers LOVE it!  It's truly a splendid and unique offering that most photographers don't have.   So if you ever want to have a beautiful private session... look no further! I can offer that too you... including a stream!  Our hundreds and hundreds of lilies are starting to break through too! Ohhhh, I cannot wait! I time everything so there is always something in bloom from early spring all the way through fall! It's incredible! 

Happy Shooting, my friends! 

Dee  

Top 5 Reasons To Work With Me (Only Click Here... if you are awesome)

Enjoying lollipops!

Playing with pumpkins.

There are a gazillion photographers out there and they all look all the same, they put out the same product and well, it gets a little boring, but there are a few things that will set me apart and why you (yup, you're awesome, did you know that?) would want to work with me!So.. I gathered up a spectacular top 5 list and hope you enjoy the quirky humor and maybe have a good laugh?

1. PersonalityThat's me, Mrs. Personality. In fact, I was class clown for many years in my youth and even had aspirations of being on Saturday Night Live "when I grew up."  I light up a room and make people laugh and feel at ease. I swear they made that song... "They call you Mr. Personality because you're so ugly"  about me! Humor is a huge component of my life and I'm able to laugh even in the darkest moments.  I realized very young that life is too short and one must live it and enjoy it! You should know that I'm endlessly cheerful and full of giddiness!I have two kids myself and apply this humor into everyday life with them. My kids are laughing and happy all the time and are very well-behaved and adjusted little monkeys. I apply this love and humor when I work with kids and babies. Many folks are amazed how I get the kids to cooperate and even can get a genuine smile out of a child who doesn't like to smile much. I'm not afraid of making myself look like a fool to get those beautiful photos! I truly have a way with people and I love people!You are seriously going to have a great time during your session!  Everyone that I have worked with says it is the most fun they ever had being photographed! That means being relaxed and having the time of your life! Seriously, I love capturing life and smiles! My clients are just like you!  Happy, cheerful and funny!

2.  I'm A Big Nerd.

I don't know what happened to me and I use to be considered "cool", but something happened and switched in my adult life! Haha! I enjoy Dr. Who, I can laugh at the Big Bang Theory and understand what comes out of Sheldon's mouth. I know weird facts that a lot of people don't know, I like going on adventures (like hiking an old pirate highway here in South Jersey where the Pirates were known to roll their rum barrels on) and discovering unique places all over SJ (I share them on my South Jersey History & Adventures Website),I'm a wanderlust and have traveled all over the world (heading to Ireland this year). I like reading and have a large library in my home and like to collect books. I love gardening. I am a huge nut! Give me a Latin name of a plant and I'll tell you all about it.  I have one of the most beautiful private gardens in South Jersey and welcome my customers here all the time for sessions. It's my Garden of Eden and I love to share it.However, being a wanderlust has allowed me to find really neat locations for my customers!! I strive to be different and to offer a different experience! Yup, a huge dork... Told Ya!

3. PeopleI

love people and am actually one of those who actually loves working with people. This is why I believe I was bred for being a photographer. You won't get any unnatural, awkward photos from me.  Fake smiles... Sheesh, no way that's not even in my vocabulary! I am a bit like a chameleon (as have been told by friends) in which I can fit in with the corporate president/CEO types (I worked with a Fortune 500 company) and can hang with the average "working man."I have friends from all walks of life! From doctors, pharmacists, to CEO's, to the friend that works at Walmart. I love people and I'm not one to judge's anyone's character. I truly believe every one is uniquely special and I treat every client with the upmost respect and as a queen! I think this is why people are comfortable in working with me. My bubbly personality and my attention to detail!

4. Attention to Detail/Preparation

I am one of those who is ALWAYS prepared!  I always bring a backup camera, batteries, memory cards with me. I plan out each session and discuss with my clients which direction they are trying to achieve and what they truly want out their session. I think it's my true attention to detail.. That makes me a bit of a perfectionist and I'm the hardest critic when it comes to my work. I strive for great communication and customer service.  I also send every customer a thank you card after each session. When you choose me, you are getting my experience  (I’m reliable, organized, and great under pressure.)You don't want to go bowling with me though, I'm lucky to score in the 30's), but I'm a great cheerleader! Before your session day, I work hard to make this experience easy! From locations, to what to wear and offering tips of advice... I'm here for you along the way (and even after)!

5. I'm Here For You!

Yup, that's me! I'll be here for you every step of the way from start to finish. If you're camera shy, a little goofy/awkward behind the camera, no one will ever notice... If you work with me! I'm all about the experience in what I can give my customers. It's all what it is about and a positive/fun one in that!  I have yet to have any boring sessions.  They are all so much fun!

Does this sound like something you are looking for? If you think that I what I offer is perfect for you, please contact me via this form right away!https://secure.jotform.us/form/50975540422151

My Personal Pledge

People want to have personalized experiences and want to feel important in this modern-day world. Service has truly become abysmal, no matter where you go. I am grateful for being a new business (almost 30 sessions in and booking and growing from my initial start date of, October 11, 2014).

 I am grateful that these clients come to see me and some have even come back to see me already. They make it possible for me to make my living in an agreeable way.  In that regard, I am going to give them, the very best I possibly can! I give my best to each family/child session and my work becomes better and better because of it!

My little lady in my backyard!

  Starting this 2015 year, I have made it a mission to put customer service as my number one priority.  You matter to me! You are important! Without you, I wouldn't be where I am today!  I am here not only as a professional, but in a way to gain new life-long working friendships!  

And if you want to make friends, you got to put yourself out to do things for other people- things that require time, energy, unselfishness and thoughtfulness.  This is the passion I put into my business and give to my clients.  This is what separates myself from most and why folks WANT to work with me and are even coming back, here in South Jersey! 

 This is what I can offer you! 

Availability... Yes!  I will answer the phone when you call, I will answer your emails or questions in a timely fashion.  I value your time, your inquiries, I value you!  I will have a quick turn-around time for your photographs! I have never gone over 4-5 days (even at my busiest of times) to have them available to you! 

EVERY CUSTOMER gets a personalized thank you card after each session.  

Yes, I personally write out a note for each and every one of my clients (even if it was just a mini-session).  I offer high-end products as well as a boutique level of service and try to make it affordable for everyone. I feel people are deserving of beautiful memories, no matter what income or demographic you are from. 

Photography is a passion of mine and nothing is better than seeing laughter, seeing a smile and holding on to those memories forever. They are treasured for decades!

  You will also gain my respect. Respect, in this day and age, is very few, far, and in between.  If you do not want a child's photo listed on the internet, or are uncomfortable with that (some parents are), I will respect your decision and not post them!   

 Service has been forgotten in these times.  It has not been forgotten on my end. I want to stand out from the crowd and among my South Jersey cohorts.  I feel this is what will help me grow.

Let me have the chance to show you what true professional service is about!  I feel that if I can understand my clients and their needs, I will become successful. You cannot have success, if you don't treasure your clients because that's what I do, I sincerely treasure each and every client of mine.  

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

A Typical Shooting Star Family Shoot

Here's another family shoot that was done last fall. I told you I was behind on getting things up on this blog, eh?  This family came all the way from Medford, Burlington County.  We started at the studio, here at Shooting Star in Salem County, South Jersey and then we went to a beautiful scouted location that is near my home.  I love all my locations!  These are scouted for their light, their elements. I love rustic, I love barn-styled shoots, I love nature!  

This has it all..  Plus, when shooting in midday sun... this place gives you protection from the harsh!  It's a win win!  I wanted to put together what a typical set or session looks like on here!I hope that you enjoy and really see what goes behind what I do!  There were even more images in the final product, but I wanted to put together a bit of variety as what a typical hour session entails.  I believe we went under an hour here.  Which is what I try to do! I know the kids are only patient for a certain amount of time!!The dog was also included in this fall shoot!  Well, because the furry babies are part of the family too!  

Daretown Lake NJ a beautiful family session with the dog.

The furry baby with his two sisters!

Two kiddos in the barn.

Sitting pretty in Salem County, NJ.

This shot was taken near our stream at the studio.

This one was a doll!!! These two sisters definitely have a love for one another!

The first family photo taken of the day! I love the furry baby included in this portrait!

Cuteness alert! I love this casual photograph!

The two beautiful sisters sitting on our garden stairs!

Time for a cutie close-up!

I love the black and white matte look!

The family and the fur baby!

Hanging out by the babbling stream!

This little one is showing me her little tooth that came out and what the tooth fairy brought her!

Mom and her two babies!

Just lovely, no words! Perfection!!

The furry baby needs to be included too!

Black and white matte shot!! =Classic!

What a classic beauty!

Bridge at Daretown Lake, Salem County.

Here's another family shoot that was done last fall. I told you I was behind on getting things up on this blog, eh?  This family came all the way from Medford, Burlington County.  We started at the studio, here at Shooting Star in Salem County, South Jersey and then we went to a beautiful scouted location that is near my home.  I love all my locations!  These are scouted for their light, their elements. I love rustic, I love barn-styled shoots, I love nature!  

This has it all..  Plus, when shooting in midday sun... this place gives you protection from the harsh!  It's a win win!  I wanted to put together what a typical set or session looks like on here!I hope that you enjoy and really see what goes behind what I do!  There were even more images in the final product, but I wanted to put together a bit of variety as what a typical hour session entails.  I believe we went under an hour here.  Which is what I try to do! I know the kids are only patient for a certain amount of time!!The dog was also included in this fall shoot!  Well, because the furry babies are part of the family too!  

This was a fun set to do! I am posting a lot of photos from this shoot.  I think mom got a total of 60 images from this!  That's how beautiful they turned out!I love adding a few artistic elements while keeping the beauty of the imagery intact.  My goal is to get everything perfect in camera so that I don't have to sit around and edit everything!  I think my total 60 images only took about one hour to edit, which in photography terms, is excellent!  Especially, with the imagery I was able to create with this set!I have written books and blogged about places to check out all around South Jersey, so I truly know all the cool and unique spots to photograph at!! FYI, we were the only ones here!  

There is also a lake here for those romantic shots that some folks adore!I truly treasure my clients!!! I go in with a great plan... and well, you see how the images turn out!  Plus, I am great with kids, having two little ones myself!!! I think that's a true difficulty that some photographers face these days, is connecting with the children!My goal is to provide a boutique-level of service!

 From start to finish!  I'm here to make the whole experience a fun and professional one!  I enjoy communicating with my clients and getting to know them prior to the shoot!  It helps in that everyone feels more relaxed and this in turn creates stunning images!  I don't know many folks who like to get their photos taken... Do You?I sure don't like my photo taken and I'm a photographer!  I have a very down to earth personality.  

I make our sessions fun, but with direction so that you get the most out of your session!I am gearing up for Spring and all the lovely families that have scheduled with me!! I purchased some great props and can't wait to utilize them!  I can't wait to see what this new year brings for me and for this new business!!! I love South Jersey and working with people here and I hope that shows through these images!!!We are also starting to see some blooming flowers here at the Studio!

 I can't wait to share it with all of you!  I love having a gorgeous private property as part of my accouterments of offerings!  Hope you enjoy these images and got to see what a typical session looks like!!!  And maybe got to know me a bit better? Trust me, you'll have a great time and I will make you laugh!  I promise!!!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee