Maternity Photography

Top 5 Reasons to Have a Maternity Session

If you're expecting a little bundle of joy, congratulations! This is an incredibly special time in your life, and what better way to capture and celebrate it than with a maternity session? Here are the top five reasons why having a maternity session with Shooting Star Photography LLC is a must:

1. Documenting the Miracle of Life: Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, filled with anticipation, excitement, and love. A maternity session allows you to freeze these precious moments in time and create lasting memories of the miraculous journey your body is going through. From the gentle curve of your belly to the glow in your eyes, our talented photographers will capture the essence of this remarkable chapter in your life.

2. Celebrating Your Changing Body: Pregnancy brings about many changes in a woman's body, and these changes deserve to be celebrated. Our maternity sessions are designed not only to capture the beauty of your growing belly but also to capture the strength, grace, and confidence that radiates from within. Embrace your unique physical transformation and cherish the stunning images that showcase your maternal glow.

3. Including Your Partner and Family: A maternity session is an opportunity to involve your partner and other family members in documenting your journey to parenthood. By including your loved ones in the session, you'll be able to capture the connection, love, and joy that surround you during this magical time. Whether it's an intimate couple's shoot or a family portrait, these images will create cherished memories for years to come.

4. Creating Heirlooms for Your Child: Your future child will love seeing images of their parents during the early stages of their life. Maternity photos serve as a tangible connection between you, your child, and the beautiful anticipation that filled the air before their arrival. By investing in a maternity session, you're creating heirlooms that can be passed down through generations, providing a glimpse into their own unique history.

5. Artistic Expression and Empowerment: A maternity session is not solely about capturing standard poses; it's an opportunity for artistic expression and self-empowerment. Our experienced

I love maternity photo shoots in Ocean City!

A collage of our maternity sessions over the past year!

 I noticed this year that I haven't done as much maternity photography as I have liked... and well.. I sincerely want to change that! And changes will be made, South Jersey! I am wanting to move forward and do what I love and what I am passionate about and while I continue to grow and going forth, that excitement  is with maternity photography.  It is my favorite type of photography besides capturing  families and children and I enjoy capturing the essence of this special moment in life! In a effort to book more for big beautiful bellies for next year, I am offering a special for 2017! This is for early bookings in 2016 only.  10 files for $250 and 20 files for $300.  

This will include an  unlimited wardrobe selection and changes within your hour shoot. Within my maternity captures, I also like to include family. This is for immediate family only. However, we ALWAYS go in with a play with every session and get the family portraits out of the way.  

Then we do portraits with mom and her kids, then dad and his  kids.. then dad and mom together and then mom's formals for her maternity session and to capture this time in your life.Also, if you do not have any children and would like to incorporate your furry pet child... bring them along!! I love working with animals!We may even bring a little organic treat for your furry love muffin!As I look into 2017,

I want to thank every customer that has come our way to make this a very successful year and to make their session one of the most fun sessions they have ever encountered.  I love when folks walk away with a wonderful overall experience!If you know anyone wanting to have a maternity capture in this stage in life.

Let them know of my offerings! I have over 30 gown selections and it grows on a weekly  basis.  I have styles and sizes for everyone!!!  We also include any little girls that will be included in the session, their dress as well and we also have numerous head piece offerings! Until we meet again folks!  

Happy Shooting!!! 

Dee 

Our Stylized Sessions Have Been a Hit!!!

Stylized Sessions: Elevating Family Portraits

When it comes to family portraits, capturing the genuine warmth and connection among loved ones is the ultimate goal. However, incorporating stylized photography sessions can add a unique and artistic touch to family portraits, elevating them to a whole new level. Stylized sessions offer the perfect opportunity to infuse creativity, personality, and flair into family photos, creating timeless and captivating images that go beyond the traditional. Here at Shooting Star Photography LLC, we believe that stylized sessions provide a wonderful way to celebrate the individuality of each family member while creating a visually stunning and memorable collection of portraits.

This was our feather dress! It had feathers and lots of tulle for mom.

vintage mint green dress for this little spunky lady.

Hi there! As stated a long, long, long time ago on this blog of Neverland... that I would be offering stylized sessions this year... and guess? We did it! We launched it!!! It has been a blast!  I receive sometimes a few new dresses a day that ship in and it's pretty crazy.  I have now over a 100 different dresses in sizes ranging from 12 months up until 14 years old. I have just started receiving and collecting some adult gowns... as one is shown below..  A few more selections have come in a champagne with sequins (its gorgeous, trust me, not ugly) It would fit a size 4-6 individual and has a built in bra.  I also have a black gown for size 12.

Our Wardrobe Selection

 A pink gown that will fit most folks from a size 6-10.  I will feature that down the road.One thing I have noticed this year is the girls and boys, when they are dressed up, they seem to cooperate much more easily.  I honestly believe it is because they are playing dress up and feel like the little princesses or princes that they are.A few things that I need to change this year, is my turnaround time. I am at about 8 weeks now. Last year's was about 10-12 weeks and at least I have managed to cut that down efficiently this year, but would like to try and keep it at a simple 4-6 weeks.  

Even sooner if possible.For the little girls, I have dresses in all sizes and colors and hundreds of hair pieces and crowns for you to choose from.  We bring a little pop up changing tent with us on location and about 4 different dress options that you can choose for during your session.  It's been a hoot and I'm in love!!! A lot of moms and dads will ask what types of shoes their children should bring. I always recommend neutrals, silvers, blacks, whites, golds, something that will still film well on camera.Some new locations I have scouted are in Medford, Deptford, Vineland, Pedricktown, Sewell and Monroeville for this year.

I am now looking into locations in Delaware and the Chester County area to kind of branch out for my clients.  I've got a few private properties that I use as well to make it a fun and enjoyable experience for all.  Thanks for being a huge support for me and my business this year. A few kinks to still work out as have only been in business a full calendar year, but think we're well on our way!!!!

More coming.. even maternity dresses!

 I'm enjoying this roller coaster ride. It's been pretty unreal!!!!  I've been traveling up and down South Jersey and into Philly lately... It's been rough and it's been very busy. Our calendar is pretty full into November this year... for that is a blessing in itself. One goal going forward, is to provide even better customer service then what we are providing now.  We're working out the details for our future endeavor!!!  

Stay tuned! It's going to be fun! Will be featuring more of our selections! About half our inventory hasn't even been worn yet!!! Can you imagine?? Happy Shooting, my friends!!! Dee          

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

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