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:
Maternity and Family Sessions in South Jersey!
Maternity and Family Sessions in South Jersey!
Mar 2
For the third time in a year, we've been ranked the BEST in the Philadelphia region as far as maternity photo sessions are concerned. A lot of my customers have been with me, with the start of their families. Being 7 years in this business, I have seen families grow. Kids go off to college, babies born and all along the way, I have been blessed to be able to capture it all. It is really a crazy roller coaster and an odd experience, but it’s also enthralling that you were a big part of capturing their childhood memories.
For the third time in a year, we've been ranked the BEST in the Philadelphia region as far as maternity photo sessions are concerned. A lot of my customers have been with me, with the start of their families. Being 7 years in this business, I have seen families grow. Kids go off to college, babies born and all along the way, I have been blessed to be able to capture it all. It is really a crazy roller coaster and an odd experience, but it’s also enthralling that you were a big part of capturing their childhood memories.
The experience of family photography session
Many families, when looking for that “magical moment” of remembrance, like to look for family photography. Portraits are very popular for capturing moments of memory and it usually involves the whole family coming together. Other times it is about just the siblings, and others times it’s the elders, parents aunts, uncles, grandparents etc.
Family Sessions are the BEES KNEES for most of all of our sessions in South Jersey!
Whatever the selection of the family members involved, it is all about the experience. What we love to provide in our sessions is the promotion of the true family happiness. Whether it’s creating the perfect mood, or the catching the perfect moment, we know that comfort and ease is most important. Making people feel that they are special, and giving that perfect experience, is extremely important to us, in catching the best possible moments in your lives.
We know that treating you like you are the star is the most important factor in creating that ideal image. In our photo sessions we can offer a wide array of options, like backgrounds, a variety of clothing, and different locations. This is all to bring comfort and happiness to our clients, because after all, it is all about you.
I love working with all my families. Each individual child has their own unique personality. They have a silly giggle or an adoring stink eye. It’s always hilarious to see your families come back year after year and honored to be a part of the photography history.
Creating moments that will last forever, and be cherished for many years to come is what it is all about. This is a passion we thrive on, and creating these perfect memories, in a happy and professional, environment, is our ultimate goal.
Working with my families isn’t a job. It is a journey, it is an experience. I love how the kiddos get more and more comfortable with me over the years and I adore seeing them grow. I have at times cried because one day they are so little and then BAM! In high school or going off to college. It can be a very emotional experience.
For example, I just had a family come up from South Carolina. I photographed these girls since they were maybe 4 and 6? Now both in high school and turning out to be smart and beautiful women! I cried. Not only that they made a trip to see me (and to see family in the region), but they have grown. I was a big part of their childhood memories that they will look back on. I captured this growth through my lens. I can’t tell you how much of a thrilling experience that is. It is really surreal.
If you would like to book your specialized family session with us, we would be delighted to help create some magic with you!
Contact us to day and we'll take care of the rest!!! Until we meet again, South Jersey!
-Dee Giumetti
Philadelphia Sessions in FULL SWING!!!
Why is Broad Street in Philly an awesome spot for photo shoots?
Broad Street in Philadelphia is an awesome spot for photo shoots due to the following reasons:
1. Iconic Landmarks: Broad Street is one of Philadelphia's major thoroughfares, lined with numerous iconic landmarks and architectural gems. These landmarks, such as Philadelphia City Hall, the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, the Academy of Music, and the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, provide visually captivating backdrops for photography.
2. Cityscape and Skyline Views: Broad Street offers excellent views of the Philadelphia skyline, especially when photographed from strategic vantage points. The juxtaposition of the historic and modern buildings along the street creates an interesting visual contrast, resulting in stunning cityscape shots.
3. Vibrant Street Life: As a bustling street in the heart of Philadelphia, Broad Street is always filled with energy and activity. It serves as a hub for cultural events, parades, and gatherings, making it an ideal location for capturing candid moments, street photography, and showcasing the city's vibrant atmosphere.
I LOVE this time of year. It's all about the twinkling lights and hustle and bustle of the city! The good ol' city of Philadelphia. I have made these a mainstay and staple in my business and my other photographers have tried to copy, but no one does it best! We know that weddings have been popular here, however, couture and family sessions were never a big thing... until we started doing them!
Why is Broad Street in Philly an awesome spot for photo shoots?
Broad Street in Philadelphia is an awesome spot for photo shoots due to the following reasons:
Iconic Landmarks: Broad Street is one of Philadelphia's major thoroughfares, lined with numerous iconic landmarks and architectural gems. These landmarks, such as Philadelphia City Hall, the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, the Academy of Music, and the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, provide visually captivating backdrops for photography.
Cityscape and Skyline Views: Broad Street offers excellent views of the Philadelphia skyline, especially when photographed from strategic vantage points. The juxtaposition of the historic and modern buildings along the street creates an interesting visual contrast, resulting in stunning cityscape shots.
Vibrant Street Life: As a bustling street in the heart of Philadelphia, Broad Street is always filled with energy and activity. It serves as a hub for cultural events, parades, and gatherings, making it an ideal location for capturing candid moments, street photography, and showcasing the city's vibrant atmosphere.
Wide and Spacious Boulevard: Broad Street is known for its width and spaciousness, allowing for unique composition opportunities in photography. The broad expanse of the street enables photographers to experiment with different angles, perspectives, and depth of field, enhancing the visual impact of their shots.
Architectural Diversity: Along Broad Street, you'll find a diverse range of architectural styles, ranging from neoclassical and Beaux-Arts to modern designs. This architectural diversity presents a wealth of possibilities for capturing contrasting aesthetics and playing with different visual elements.
Accessibility and Convenience: Broad Street is easily accessible, with multiple transportation options available, including subway stations and bus routes. Its central location and proximity to other notable landmarks and neighborhoods in Philadelphia make it a convenient spot for photo shoots.
Historical Significance: Broad Street has a rich history and has played a significant role in the city's development. This historical context adds depth and meaning to the photographs, capturing the essence of Philadelphia's heritage.
Overall, the combination of iconic landmarks, cityscape views, vibrant street life, spacious boulevard, architectural diversity, accessibility, and historical significance make Broad Street an excellent location for capturing compelling and memorable photographs in Philadelphia.Now, is the time to book your fall family city photo session! WE have a huge huge month this upcoming November. With our move-in date of our studio in Maple Shade, New Jersey, effective November 1st and a ton of things going on in the heart of the busiest season we have ever had! We truly love our customers and EVERYTHING we put out on the table.
It's been a labor of love and a lot of blood, sweat and tears. At Shooting Star Photography, we hope to continue with the BEST service and high-quality images that you have expected and seen over the past five to six years.
One of my most favorite Philadelphia captures.. EVERRRR. It was FREEZING cold this day, but she was a trooper! Broad Street Philadelphia, family photographers in south jersey
One of my most favorite Philadelphia captures.. EVERRRR. It was FREEZING cold this day, but she was a trooper!
For these upcoming sessions on November 8th, we will be offering up styling. We can only do 4 spots, but we cannot wait to offer these to our clients this year! They are truly showstoppers for your annual Christmas Cards!
Father and daughter enjoying a moment on Broad Street in Philadelphia. Truly one of my favorite places to shoot in the city and in the South Jersey area.
Father and daughter enjoying a moment on Broad Street in Philadelphia. Truly one of my favorite places to shoot in the city and in the South Jersey area.
I'm always in love with father and daughter captures! They truly are the BEST!!!!!
Another beautiful family session taken in Philly! Love the way this family looks at each other! I cannot wait to open up my store in Maple Shade, NJ as Philadelphia will only be moments away!
Another beautiful family session taken in Philly! Love the way this family looks at each other! I cannot wait to open up my store in Maple Shade, NJ as Philadelphia will only be moments away!
One of my most FAVORITE CLIENTS. I see these guys a few times a year. LOVE THE WAY they are looking at one another! Another gorgeous Broad Street session in the books!
One of my most FAVORITE CLIENTS. I see these guys a few times a year. LOVE THE WAY they are looking at one another! Another gorgeous Broad Street session in the books!
If you would like to book one of these sessions, you may do so here! Hope to see you out for one of the best spots in Philadelphia! We LOVE YOU SOUTH JERSEY AND PHILLY!!!!
If you ever have any questions, feel free to reach out!
Happy Shooting, my friends!
Dee Giumetti
Shooting Star Photography
Sunflower Sessions in South Jersey
A New Jersey sunflower photo shoot can be special for several reasons:
1. Vibrant Beauty: Sunflowers are known for their striking, vibrant yellow petals and large, captivating blooms. Their bright and cheerful appearance adds a burst of color to photographs, creating a visually stunning backdrop that can instantly uplift the mood of the image.
A beauty in the sunflower fields in South Jersey.
Sunflower Sessions in South Jersey
I absolutely love sunflower sessions! They bring me pure joy to each and every single family I work with. There's something very special and becoming of those beautiful yellow, orange and red beauties. It wouldn't be called the Garden State, if we didn't grow them!
You normally can find a range of farms anywhere from North Jersey to South Jersey this time of year. As I am preparing my Maple Shade, New Jersey, studio, I will also be servicing my usual Salem and Gloucester counties in my area. It will be a very busy year! However, I am greatly looking forward as to what is to come!
A sunflower photo shoot can be special for several reasons:
Vibrant Beauty: Sunflowers are known for their striking, vibrant yellow petals and large, captivating blooms. Their bright and cheerful appearance adds a burst of color to photographs, creating a visually stunning backdrop that can instantly uplift the mood of the image.
Symbolism: Sunflowers often symbolize happiness, positivity, and a sunny disposition. Incorporating sunflowers into a photo shoot can evoke feelings of joy, warmth, and optimism. They can serve as a powerful visual representation of these emotions, making the photos more meaningful and uplifting.
Natural and Organic Setting: Sunflower fields provide a natural and organic setting for a photo shoot. Being surrounded by rows of tall sunflowers creates a picturesque and serene environment. The combination of nature's beauty and the human presence in the photographs can create a harmonious and captivating composition.
Seasonal and Timeliness: Sunflowers are typically in bloom during the summer and early fall seasons. Planning a sunflower photo shoot during this time allows you to capture the beauty of the fleeting season and the essence of the particular time of year. It can be a way to commemorate the summer or embrace the transition to fall.
Versatile Themes: Sunflowers can be incorporated into various themes and styles of photography. Whether it's a casual and playful shoot, a romantic couple session, a family portrait, or even a maternity shoot, sunflowers can add a unique and eye-catching element to the composition. Their versatility allows for creative exploration and expression.
Connection to Nature: Sunflower fields offer a connection to nature and the outdoors. They provide an opportunity to escape the urban environment and immerse oneself in the beauty of the natural world. This connection can enhance the overall experience of the photo shoot and create a sense of tranquility and harmony.
When planning a sunflower photo shoot, consider visiting sunflower farms or fields known for their blooming sunflowers. Coordinate the timing of the shoot to coincide with the peak bloom of the sunflowers. Experiment with different angles, poses, and compositions to make the most of the sunflowers' beauty. Whether it's capturing close-up shots of individual sunflowers or incorporating them as a backdrop for larger compositions, the presence of sunflowers can transform ordinary photographs into something truly special.
Sunflower sessions held in Salem County, New Jersey. Near Mannington, New Jersey.
I am offering these last minute sunflower sessions. I had to offer these last minute due to our schedule and what we could allow. However, we are actually running AHEAD of schedule this year. Also, the sunflowers are now in peak bloom in the South Jersey area.
Momma and her little girl in sunflowers in Vineland New Jersey. We work with a lot of growers in the area and always are aware of blooms in the South Jersey area.
Momma and her little girl in sunflowers in Vineland New Jersey. We work with a lot of growers in the area and always are aware of blooms in the South Jersey area.
Dresses by Little Dreamers tutus. Photo session taken in a Sunflower field in Mantua, New Jersey Gloucester County. All these dresses will be on display in our maple shade new jersey photography studio!
Dresses by Little Dreamers tutus. Photo session taken in a Sunflower field in Mantua, New Jersey Gloucester County.
We can provide dresses, if needed for these sessions. Just let us know. We're happy to provide the best experience for all our customers!!! Every session is unique and will be held at golden hour to fit our editing aesthetic.
Another beautiful dress by Little Dreamers Tutus. Love the pink sky added for some extra pop. It is all about the light!!
Another beautiful dress by Little Dreamers Tutus. Love the pink sky added for some extra pop. It is all about the light!!
I hope to see you out Monday or Wednesday next week!
Info can be found here! https://shootingstarphotographyllc.bigcartel.com/product/last-minute-sunflower-sessions-september-28th-and-september-30th
Brother and sister looking out at the sunset in gorgeous South Jersey! Don't you just love fall ya'll? maple shade new jersey, photographers in south jersey, south jersey family photographers, sunflowers in moorestown new jersey
Brother and sister looking out at the sunset in gorgeous South Jersey! Don't you just love fall ya'll?
Until we meet again South Jersey... Happy Shooting!
With love XOXOXO,
Dee
New Jersey Beach Sessions! Jersey Shore Beach Photographer
We truly love New Jersey Beach Sessions! It's actually our number one requested session to do each year. We've sold out every single year, since we started these. This year, we are actually teaching other photographers how to shoot at the beach and that was sold out within hours. We're even sold out this year for family, children's or maternity sessions (2019). There's no wonder they call me the Eastern Coast "Beach Queen" when it comes to stylized beach portraiture.
It's honestly our goal to capture these beautiful pastel beach tones. I can't tell you how many photographers struggle with beach lighting and working at the beach. Elements alone are against us. From the wind, to the sand (that can seriously damage equipment), to very extreme harsh lighting due to the light bouncing off the sand and water. What we've done, is to find locations that work in our favor. We can manipulate light to work with us and we fly with it. Shooting Star Photography travels pretty much throughout the entire central to southern coast of the New Jersey Shore. We do sessions from LBI, Avalon, Stone Harbor, Margate, Sea Isle, Cape May, Wildwood and everywhere in between. There are even some neat beach areas we enjoy on the western shores of Jersey, the Delaware Bay that we like to utilize for our sessions. It's honestly what is important to our client and what they are looking to do.
Beach sessions our favorite session that we do. There is something calming with working at the beach. I enjoy it being my office for the day! The cool winds blowing off the ocean, the gulls a gawking. There's something very peaceful about the Jersey Shore. 
Our social media game is strong and we're waaay behind on blogging sessions. This is from our 2017 Jersey shore beach sessions, just to give you an idea. However, I always recommend folks checking us out on social media for our latest and greatest work! Happy Shooting my friends! DeeShooting Star Photography
New Magical Overlays
Hi there photographers!! Do you struggle with greens in post production editing? Are you an east coaster and get some ugly neon green or yellow ugly grass in your photographs? Ugly green forests? Or maybe a field that needs a little color?Well, I have a solution for you!!! It may just work for you.. These work best on images with limited highlights. However, here are some in use by other photographers. Also, folks are loving the sun rays that are included in this pack, too! 
If you would like to purchase these overlays you may do so by going here!!! Use code "awesomesauce" for a limited time for 20% off your entire order. We really think you will enjoy this creative collection!!!The new greens and light pack can be found here... https://shootingstarphotographyllc.bigcartel.com/product/magical-overlay-pack Our sky pack can be found at this link. https://shootingstarphotographyllc.bigcartel.com/product/real-sky-overlays I truly hope they will benefit you and your photography artistry! Thanks again!Dee Shooting Star Photography
Follow our journey around the Philadelphia Area.
