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:
Unicorn Sessions in South Jersey!
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Little two year old and her unicorn.
Golly Gee... I truly love unicorn sessions. There's something magical about kids and being with something so majestic! I LOVE creating the magic and capturing the magic of this interaction and also making ART!!! Unicorns are just so much fun... and every little girl tends to go through this "magical" stage and just love rainbows!
Twirling and having fun with her unicorn!
Lovely lady in the forest. With a unicorn!
Why do people love sessions with unicorns?
People often have portraits with a unicorn for a variety of reasons, including:
Symbolism and Mythology: Unicorns have long been associated with symbolism and mythology. They are often depicted as majestic, mythical creatures representing purity, grace, beauty, and magic. Including a unicorn in a portrait can evoke a sense of enchantment and fantasy, adding a touch of whimsy and mystique to the image.
Personal Expression and Fantasy: Some individuals are drawn to unicorns because they resonate with their personal interests and fantasies. Unicorns are frequently associated with childhood nostalgia and dreams. Including a unicorn in a portrait allows people to express their imagination, embrace their inner child, and create a unique and whimsical image that reflects their personality or desired aesthetic.
Individuality and Creativity: Incorporating a unicorn into a portrait can be a way for people to stand out and create a distinctive image. Unicorns are less conventional subjects compared to traditional portraits, making them a symbol of individuality and creativity. It allows individuals to showcase their unique style and taste while creating an eye-catching and memorable portrait.
Symbol of Magic and Dreams: Unicorns are often seen as symbols of magic and dreams. Including a unicorn in a portrait can evoke a sense of wonder, fantasy, and escapism. It allows individuals to portray a sense of limitless possibility and imagination, capturing a moment where reality and fantasy intertwine.
Cultural and Popularity Factors: Unicorns have gained significant popularity in recent years, becoming a trend in popular culture, fashion, and design. They are often associated with positivity, joy, and empowerment. Including a unicorn in a portrait may be influenced by current trends or a desire to align with popular cultural symbols.
It's important to note that the reasons for including a unicorn in a portrait can vary from person to person. Some may be drawn to the symbolism, while others simply find unicorns aesthetically pleasing or enjoyable to incorporate into their visual narratives. Ultimately, the choice to have a portrait with a unicorn is a personal one, driven by individual preferences, emotions, and creative expression.Last Fall, we got to capture a beautiful unicorn session in the forest in Williamstown, New Jersey!!! I love unicorn sessions!
With each unicorn session, we bring about 60 dresses to choose from, including headpieces. From all sorts of designers! From Anna Triant, Adrianna Ostrowski, to Dollcake... the list is numerous. WE love seeing the magic transform and for each little girl to feel like a true princess!
The Fall in South Jersey a Magical Unicorn Session.
Beautiful capture of a little princess with her unicorn in the south jersey orchard!!! She is in LOVE with her unicorn. Wearing one of my fav designers... Dollcake! Cannot wait to try out sessions like this in Moorestown, New Jersey! I have awesome location options all over Burlington County!
Our next unicorn session will run on Saturday, November 14th! I will post details soon!! Hope you can come out for this magical experience. Our studio in Maple Shade, New Jersey will be opening on November 1st. It will be a busy month for us at Shooting Star Photography, but we cannot wait!!! It's truly going to be a blast going into 2021. We hope that you can come out! We would love to see you and work with you!
Until we meet again and Happy Shooting!
Dee
Shooting Star Photography
South Jersey Family photographer serving Woodstown, Mullica Hill, Swedesboro, Hammonton, Moorestown, Maple Shade, Delran, Washington Township, Cherry Hill, Ocean City, Sea Isle, Avalon, Deptford, West Deptford, Cape May etc. etc etc. Give us a call, we'd love to chat!
Still Opening My Studio- 2020 Strong!
God gave you all a gift. He put that inside you. He gave you the gift of giving your absolute best with the minimal effort. Have you ever looked around you and said... "How did I get her in this point in life?" And where you can look around and see the blessings given all around you. Yes, you may have worked your booty off... but some of these gifts just come naturally in life.
Some of these gifts may include:
:Making people feel good
:Making people laugh
:Photography
:Intelligence- Always learning. Always growing.
:Writing
:Friendship
:Sunday Dinners
I believe the gift I was given was to make people smile. Make them laugh. I am a total comedian at heart. I love capturing moments behind the lens and love reveling in moments and being in the moment sans camera. It's just always how I have been.
Even in this uneasy, crazy time... I still find humor. It's dark as we don't know what the future holds, but I have hope.
As photographers, you need to find your passion and what drives you as the artist you are.
Even doing a YOU series. Like individual adult portraits telling people’s love story. Or capturing the joy of family life. Listen to your heart and let it drive you to great heights.
Remember.... in the midst of this Corona virus. The person you are today... isn’t going to be the person you are a year from now or 10 years from now. Radiate love in every area of your life. Even if its at home at the moment.
I still plan to open my studio and make 2020 THE KICK BUTT YEAR. I may have been delayed, but it won't stop me from pursing my dream. Maple Shade, New Jersey here I come. I can't wait to be a part of the community. I'm very excited for what the future brings!
Portraits in the Snow. Beautiful Light Found in South Jersey.
Beautiful Snow Portrait Photography in New Jersey
There is something truly enchanting about capturing portraits in the snow. As delicate flakes gently cascade from the heavens, they create a dreamlike ambiance, transforming the surroundings into a winter wonderland. The mesmerizing white blanket serves as a magical canvas, enhancing the beauty of every subject. The crisp chill in the air adds a rosy glow to cheeks, making smiles shine even brighter. Against the serene backdrop, the vivid colors of scarves, hats, and mittens pop with vibrancy, creating striking contrasts. Snowflakes delicately kiss eyelashes, evoking a sense of whimsy and enchantment. In the realm of winter portraiture, the photographer becomes an artist, skillfully capturing the ethereal magic that lies within snowy landscapes.
Capturing children's portraits in the snow is an exhilarating and endearing experience that truly encapsulates the joy and wonder of childhood. As the snowflakes gently fall from the sky, creating a pristine white canvas, the children's rosy cheeks and bright smiles light up the wintry landscape. Each photograph becomes a timeless moment frozen in time, a testament to their innocence and boundless energy. Against the backdrop of snow-covered trees and sparkling winter light, the children's playful nature is showcased as they build snow forts, throw snowballs, or embrace the beauty of the season. With every click of the shutter, the magic of childhood and the ethereal beauty of the snow merge, resulting in portraits that are full of warmth, delight, and memories that will last a lifetime.
Addison Street is a beautiful setting for snow photography.
Snowing at Weymouth Furnace.
Wow! We did not expect this, for this year! Boy, have things changed and quickly! It was going to be a great year for Shooting Star Photography. A lot of changes were made. A new studio location was about to be open. Then... in a matter of days.. ALL of our lives changed. Which seemed to happen overnight. We changed our clocks forward, but if only we knew what the week would be ahead, after the change. I don't think anyone could have ever predicted such craziness.
Most small businesses are shut down and not permitted to operate in these crazy times. I feel for anyone going through the struggle right now. The stimulus package will not help most of us small business owners.
Who knows when this will end. Some states have shut down schools for the rest of the year. My neighboring state, of Delaware, has shut down everything until May 15th. These are very scary times that we now live in and a lot of us are stressed, due to the unknown.
A beautiful portrait taken in downtown Haddonfield, New Jersey
All we can do is band together to do what needs to be done. Help each other in these times. Be kind.
I don't know what is to happen with my business in the future. I have been able to operate for the past five years. Who knows what will happen? I am unable to take on any sessions right now. This is our busy time of year and most of us small business owners do not qualify for any stimulus $$$$. Most of us are operating (because we still have overhead/operating costs) on savings at this point. I know wedding photographers that have been left bankrupt from this. Due to weddings being cancelled. I know studio owners that may have to close their doors. It's a sad situation for all us small business owners right now. We just need to truck on by and stand together. This won't last forever.
Stay in there. Use this time wisely. Brush up on skills. Eliminate and go over expenses. We're all in this together. Stay strong!
Winter Maternity Sessions!
Maternity Photography-Did you know... that maternity is one of our favorites to shoot? Both my assistant and I (mom, theeee best assistant, ever) truly love it. It is our FAVORITO. Why do we love it so much? Well, it is because it is an exciting new chapter in a couple's life. It's usually a life changing event, once your little bundle joy arrives. Tremendous emotions... everything from fear, to love, to anticipation comes to the surface. I know for me..
Tt was terrifying.. that you are actually responsible for another human being.. when sometimes you can't even take care of yourself.. and trying to keep it together, am I right? This time is a wonderful time to capture that belly bump silhouette. I know with my children, they enjoy seeing me huge, but seeing the belly they were once inside. This is also a wonderful time for the bubbies.
Winter Wonderland Maternity Session: Embracing the Magic of the Season
Winter maternity magic in New Jersey.
The beauty of winter is not solely confined to the glistening snowflakes and frost-covered landscapes—it extends to the tender moments of a winter maternity session. At Shooting Star Photography LLC, we understand the unique charm and ethereal ambiance that a winter backdrop offers for capturing the radiance and anticipation of a soon-to-be mother.
A winter maternity session provides an opportunity to embrace the magic of the season while celebrating the incredible journey of pregnancy. Imagine standing amidst a snow-covered forest, the air crisp and invigorating, while capturing moments that convey the overwhelming joy and love that surrounds the expectant parents.
The snow-covered landscapes serve as a blanket of serenity, creating a picturesque setting that enhances the natural glow of the mother-to-be. The contrast between the soft white snow and the vibrant colors of a maternity gown or a cozy sweater adds a level of warmth and intimacy to the images.
To make the winter maternity session truly enchanting, Shooting Star Photography LLC works closely with our clients to create a vision that reflects their uniqueness and captures the essence of their journey. Whether it's an outdoor session, with the golden glow of a winter sunset as a backdrop, or an indoor session with the warmth of a crackling fireplace, we strive to create an atmosphere that is as magical as the love that is growing within.
The beauty of a winter maternity session lies not only in the visually stunning images but also in the emotional connection that is formed. As the snowflakes gently fall, the expectant couple can't help but snuggle closer, creating an intimate and heartfelt bond that is immortalized in the photographs.
To ensure the comfort and safety of our clients, Shooting Star Photography LLC provides various options to accommodate the winter conditions. From cozy blankets and warm wraps to tips on dressing appropriately for the cold weather, we go above and beyond to make the experience enjoyable and memorable.
A winter maternity session goes beyond capturing beautiful photographs—it narrates a story of love, anticipation, and the unbreakable bond between parents and their unborn child. The cozy winter sweaters, the tender touches in the falling snow, and the contagious excitement in the air all contribute to creating treasured memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.
As we embark on this winter season, Shooting Star Photography LLC invites expectant parents to embrace the magic of a winter maternity session. Let us capture the beauty and sentimentality of this remarkable time, ensuring that these moments are preserved and shared with loved ones for generations to come.
Contact Shooting Star Photography LLC today to book your winter maternity session, and let us create a timeless collection of images that truly capture the essence of this special chapter in your life.
A magical winter session in Shooting Star Photography.
Did you know... that maternity is one of our favorites to shoot? Both my assistant and I (mom, theeee best assistant, ever) truly love it. It is our FAVORITO. Why do we love it so much? Well, it is because it is an exciting new chapter in a couple's life. It's usually a life changing event, once your little bundle joy arrives. Tremendous emotions... everything from fear, to love, to anticipation comes to the surface. I know for me.. it was terrifying.. that you are actually responsible for another human being.. when sometimes you can't even take care of yourself.. and trying to keep it together, am I right? This time is a wonderful time to capture that belly bump silhouette. I know with my children, they enjoy seeing me huge, but seeing the belly they were once inside. This is also a wonderful time for the bubbies.
Those babies get nice and big! Hahahaha!I love maternity.
We have a ton of gowns. All different colors. It's important that dad and kids are involved. Although, it is mostly about you and the bump-a-roo! Our goal is to capture you in a dreamy/ very best light to show off your bump. Our favorite time of year is winter. It is the best time of light and the best time to shoot maternity sessions. As come spring and those warmer months, you are preparing for the bambino/bambina!
We know this is a tough time getting around. You can't see your feet anymore, your feet and ankles start to swell... and you feel HUGE!!! But.. I can't tell you how this is an important event to capture and look back on. Once the baby is here, it's go go go. It's nice to do something for yourself and especially great to document this new chapter in your life. Almost as important, as your own wedding day. Moments to look back on. As you get older, time just flies. You have a one year old one moment. and before you know it, they are heading off to college.
Photographs are sometimes all you have, when someone passes.. or for memories. Let us help you capture this bumpalicious time. We will help you get up... and help you move around, hahahaha. We know the struggle is real, but trust me, it's all worth it. These munchkins will be the best thing that ever happened to you! Contact us today to make it happen! Happy Shooting, my friends! Dee
Shooting Star Photography
Philadelphia's premiere maternity photographer
Grandpa and me...
Every single session we do for our clients is truly unique. Not one photograph will look the same because we truly love making every single photograph a true keepsake and piece of art.It's honestly what we we trained to do in this business. As I reflect back on this 2018 year, I have to say it was the hardest year of my life. As I look back, I almost lost my mother, who is my assistant.. She was hospitalized for over a month. It was a nightmare during this time. We thought she may not make it and that she may no longer be with us. She's a huge asset to this photography business. She's the best assistant I could ever ask for and am grateful for everything she does. I am so elated she is still here with us and recovered fully. About 10 days after my mom came home, it was my husband's turn. He had flu-like symptoms and his condition got worse and worse. He was then hospitalized. The doctors were baffled as to what was happening. Every specialist they had on hand, he saw. His condition got worse and worse to the point where we almost lost him. He lost all bodily functioning, he lost his ability to walk. It was a very scary time. They put him on every antibiotic known to man. It was within two weeks, he started to finally show some life again and slowly got better. He was later transferred to an inpatient subacute rehabilitation center to learn how to walk all over again. It was later found out by infectious disease that what he caught, only effects about 2,000 patients a year with about a 60% mortality rate. He's lucky to be here. When I look back on the year, I see myself. I see how strong I was. As a wife, daughter, mother.. and I honestly don't know how I got through it all. I kept every single photography session that I had scheduled. I did not cancel on anyone. In fact, the sessions were very therapeutic for me as I was going through this. It's true how art can soothe the soul. There were some delays on editing galleries, but very understandable in the situation and I did inform customers of the situation. Under normal circumstances, most folks would be able to take a leave of absence from their jobs. However, as a single business owner, I unfortunately was unable to do that. I just trucked through. I realized how strong I really am and how I kept it together. I know most folks would crumble. I just feel fortunate to have both the folks I love dearly still here with me. In any event... as I look back and everything I went through. I realize how very important photographs are. I made a point to get myself photographed with my children this past fall.. as I didn't have any. I also made an appointment with a photographer I admire for 2019 and I plan to make an appointment with another one as well. It's very important. This is why I am sharing this... This is grandpa. He doesn't live in the US (hopefully, soon though) and I told my customer it was important to bring her father so that he could be in some images. This will be a keepsake for the family for years to come to remember. Our children get older every day and the folks that we love.. we continue to lose, year after year. Time does not stand still. This is why it's important to capture these moments. I truly hope this mama got this blown up and proudly displayed in the house. It's beautiful.
Get those photographs folks. Capture these precious moments. One day you may not have your loved ones with you.. and all you have left are these. This is why I love what I do and why I got into photography in the first place. If you would like to book your family session, please reach out. We would love to customize something special for you!!! Happy Shooting, my friends!!!! Dee Shooting Star Photography
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